Algerian national team coach Djamel Belmadi expressed optimism about the possibility of the "Desert Warriors" qualifying for the knockout stage of the Africa Cup of Nations, despite the defeat against Equatorial Guinea on Sunday, with a score of 1-0. Belmadi said in a press conference after the match against Equatorial Guinea that he is "a man who loves challenges," adding that he "believes in the team's ability to reach the next round."
He clarified that the Algerian team will strive to win against Ivory Coast in the final group match. Belmadi expressed regret over the lack of a final touch in front of the opponent's goal, noting that scoring just one goal would have freed the teammates of winger Riyad Mahrez, according to the newspaper "Echorouk."
Belmadi predicted that the upcoming match would be akin to a "final," pointing out that Ivory Coast has players with high individual skills, which would complicate the task for "Les Verts." He concluded his remarks by affirming his support for the team players, emphasizing that he has informed them of his responsibility for the results achieved, and the necessity to focus on the Ivory Coast match away from any psychological pressure.
The defending champion Algerian team suffered a shocking defeat against the modest Equatorial Guinea with a goal scored by Esteban Obiang in the 70th minute, which gave his country the victory and ended Algeria's 35-match unbeaten streak, a record in Africa. Algeria had previously been held to a goalless draw against Sierra Leone at the start of their title defense and now needs to win against Ivory Coast in the final round to avoid an early exit.
