L’Algérie démarre fort sa préparation face au Zimbabwe

Algeria starts its preparation strong against Zimbabwe

Friendly meeting

Algeria launched its preparation for CAN 2025 perfectly by winning against Zimbabwe (3-1) on Thursday at the Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. All players were used and appreciated. Difficult, in these conditions, to draw definitive lessons, but the collective performance was attractive: a well-oiled team, fluid play and a rediscovered group spirit. The machine already seems to be launched for a promising CAN. Coach Vladimir Petkovic surprised by fielding a largely overhauled eleven, notably with Rayan Aït-Nouri positioned very high, in a unique role as left winger. Ibrahim Maza, sparkling, was the real catalyst of the game. The Bayer Leverkusen midfielder was at the origin of the first goal, signed Bounedjah (1-0, 14th), before Amoura doubled the lead with a superb individual action (2-0, 41st). Just before the break, Hadjam added to the score with a powerful half-volley (3-0, 45ᵉ+1). In the second half, the numerous changes made by Petkovic somewhat broke the dynamic, and the Fennecs conceded a penalty at the end of the match (3-1, 88th). Despite this small error, the resulting copy remains very encouraging for the future. In the middle, Ibrahim Maza confirmed his potential, lined up alongside Ismaël Bennacer, back after his long absence, and Ramiz Zerrouki. In defense, the pair Zineddine Belaïd – Samir Chergui was tested for the first time, while Jaouen Hadjam and Rafik Belghali animated the corridors. In goal, Oussama Benbot made a remarkable return after several months of unavailability.
Executives, such as Alexis Guendouz, Riyad Mahrez or Aïssa Mandi, started on the bench. And the least we can say is that this experimental team responded – even to the point of questioning the level of the opponent. Next meeting for the Greens: November 18 against Hervé Renard’s Saudi Arabia, still in Jeddah.
H.Hichem