Algiers – Algeria’s national football team coach, Vladimir Petković, confirmed on Thursday that Mitchell Weiser (Werder Bremen, Germany) and Abdelrahman Ribach (Deportivo Alavés, Spain) are under consideration for potential inclusion in the national squad. While they are on the coaching team’s radar, Petković opted for other tactical solutions for the upcoming matches.Algeria National Team
Speaking at a press conference held at Nelson Mandela Stadium in Algiers, Petković said, “Weiser is a well-known player whom I observed in Germany. He has the experience we need and is on our expanded list. For now, I’ve chosen different options.” The press event was in anticipation of Algeria’s final two matches in Group E of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, scheduled for Thursday, November 14 against Equatorial Guinea in Malabo (2:00 p.m.) and Sunday, November 17 against Liberia at the Hussein Ait Ahmed Stadium in Tizi Ouzou (5:00 p.m.). Algeria National Team
Petković’s 26-player squad for these crucial matches includes the first-time call-up of Amin Shaykha from Copenhagen FC in Denmark. Commenting on Ribach, Petković said, “Ribach has been a starter in his recent club games, and his style suits our team well. He’s fast, much like Amoura, but his absence is simply a personal choice.” Algeria National Team
Additionally, Petković discussed the return of midfielder Fares Chaïbi (Eintracht Frankfurt, Germany), who is rejoining “Les Fennecs” after a period away. “Chaïbi was with us last March. Although he hasn’t played much recently, he’s a young, promising talent. When I see players struggling, I try to support them, like I’ve done with others such as Atal. Chaïbi’s presence will be valuable, especially with key midfield players like Bentaleb, Bennacer, Aouar, and Boudaoui unavailable.” Algeria National Team
Petković emphasized that Algeria’s national team remains open to players not currently selected, mentioning names like Brahimi, Sayoud, and Belaïli, who may be considered for future matches. Algeria National Team
Doubts Over Hacham’s Participation Due to Injury
Despite an injury sustained with his club, Young Boys (Switzerland), defender Juan Hacham is listed among the 26-player roster. Petković commented, “I included him because it’s unclear if he’ll be fit to play. Our medical team is in constant communication with his club, and we’ll evaluate his condition based on his performance this Sunday. Overall, we have alternatives.”
Petković also expressed “satisfaction” with Riyad Mahrez’s recent form at Al-Ahli Jeddah, where the player scored three goals in his last three matches across all competitions. “It’s a positive development to see Riyad Mahrez regaining his form. He’s been assisting teammates and has improved physically. I expect to see the best of Mahrez in the coming games,” he remarked.
Petković concluded by stating his ambition for a versatile Algerian team, one capable of adapting and changing strategies as needed. “I don’t want to rely on a single approach. My goal is a cohesive squad that can dominate matches.”
After four qualifying rounds, Algeria sits at the top of Group E with 12 points, followed by Equatorial Guinea with 7 points. Togo is in third with 2 points, and Liberia is last with 1 point. The top two teams from each group will advance to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, set to take place from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, with only one team advancing from the host country’s group.
Final Push for AFCON 2025 Qualification
Algeria’s upcoming games against Equatorial Guinea and Liberia are essential for maintaining their lead and securing qualification. Should Algeria emerge victorious in both matches, they will solidify their position and take a major step toward participating in the prestigious tournament in 2025. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if Petković’s adaptable strategy will prove effective against diverse opponents, with Algeria’s ultimate goal being not only to qualify but to make a strong showing in the Africa Cup of Nations. Algeria National Team
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Author: nor-eleslam
Algeria National Team, Vladimir Petković, 2025 AFCON Qualifiers, Player Selection, Riyad Mahrez
