Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic said his team faces a tough challenge at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, urging his players to remain humble and show respect to all opponents in what he described as a highly competitive group.
Speaking at a news conference in Rabat on Tuesday ahead of Wednesday’s match against Sudan, the Bosnian coach said the teams in Algeria’s group bring different playing styles and that recent AFCON editions have shown that surprises are always possible.
“The last Africa Cup of Nations proved that anything can happen,” Petkovic said, stressing the need for full concentration in every match while maintaining confidence in the team’s identity and values.
Petkovic said host nation Morocco holds a slight advantage, given home support and its strong showing at the 2022 World Cup, but added that at least five or six teams have legitimate chances of winning the title.
Regarding Algeria’s prospects, Petkovic said he is confident the team can reach the knockout stages, adding that his main task is to transmit that belief to the players.
“When we work together as a group, this team is capable of delivering positive performances,” he said.
The coach emphasized the importance of focusing on the present rather than dwelling on past successes or disappointments, noting that previous experiences should serve as lessons, not pressure.
Petkovic said Algeria has shown encouraging performances in recent matches and that the final training session would be decisive in determining player readiness and the starting lineup.
Asked about favorites for the title, Petkovic said it was difficult to single out one contender, citing the unpredictability of the tournament and Ivory Coast’s surprise triumph in the previous edition.
Algeria face Sudan on Wednesday at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, with kickoff scheduled for 4 p.m. local time.
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