Algerian Football Federation (AFF)
1962
Coach: Rabah Saâdane
Confederation: CAF
FIFA Ranking (Nov 09): 28
Previous Appearances: 2 (1982, 1986)
BACKGROUND
Algeria could not proceed beyond the first round of World Cup 1982 and 1986, their only appearances on the grand arena till now. Despite the early exit, they are even now remembered for the shock defeat they dished out to Germany in 1982. now into the final rounds after 24 years, Algeria will be looking forward for a better record against their name.
The road to the 2010 FIFA World Cup
Algeria was seeded into the second round for the qualification for the 2010 World Cup. The qualification matches were combined for the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations as well.
Second Round
placed in Group F along with Gambia, Liberia and Senegal, Algeria kicked off their campaign with a miserable 0-1 loss to Senegal in Dakar. But the Fennecs bounced back with a 3-0 victory at home against Liberia, only to lose 1-0 to Gambia. However, taking advantage of the home factor, they subdued Gambia 1-0 in the return leg. This was followed by a revenge win of 3-2 over Senegal and a goal less draw with Liberia.
Algeria had only three wins in six matches. But this was enough to take them to the next round, as they topped the table.
Third Round
Algeria was put in group C for the third round and the other contenders were Rwanda, Zambia, and Egypt. After drawing the opening encounter with Rwanda, a game in which neither team scored, Algeria stunned the reigning African champion Egypt with a 3-1 victory. This was followed by an away win-a rarity for the Desert Foxes- against Zambia. The winning streak continued and Zambia( return leg) and Rwanda were again humbled.
But there still remained the crucial return match with Egypt who would no doubt go all-out for two goal margin win, for that was what separated the two countries. And this was exactly what the Egyptians achieved with the second goal coming in the dying seconds of the game. This meant a play-off at a neutral venue, Khartoum. Fortune favours the brave and the Fennecs sailed into the World Cup with a solitary goal win.
Strengths
Algeria has a young and disciplined team. They have a fresh approach to the game and adversities do not dishearten them. The Fennecs have more coordination and are more solid than ever before.
Weaknesses
Since 2003, Algeria have won only two away games. Granting that the World Cup takes place in neutral venues, still travel they have to. Strangely enough the Algerians seem to be travel weary and they will have to get over this complex. Absence of world class forwards too is a debilitating factor.
THE COACH
Rabah Saadane is in his fifth spell as coach of the Algerian team. The tireless 63-year-old has been a permanent feature of Algerian football ever since the country’s independence. Saadane is branded as a strict disciplinarian on the pitch. He is a great motivator and Algeria’s return to big time football is largely attributed to his perseverance.
Star Men
Antar Yahia (VfL Bochum):
A native of France, he qualified to play for Algeria being of Algerian origin. He has put on the Algerian jersey in 40 matches and has scored 5 goals, despite being a defender.
Karim Ziani:
The attacking midfielder is a skilful dribbler and passes the ball with keen anticipation of the field the next moment. He works hard in the defense and is ready for any kind of tackle for the team. Surprisingly he turned out to be the top goal scorer for Algeria in the qualifiers.
Rafik Saifi (Al Khor, Qatar):
Experience too matters in any squad and at 34 years old, Saifi is the veteran of the Algerian team.
World Cup Objective
Playing the games to the best of their abilities with determination and focus. There will not be any pressure on them and they can play their hearts out and hope for the best. And they can always hope for a surprise result.
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