Vladimir Petković, coach of the Algerian national team, confirmed that the Moroccan national team is among the top contenders to win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, benefiting from the advantages of playing on home soil and in front of their own fans, as they are the host country of the tournament.

Petković explained, in statements reported by the official website of the African Football Confederation, that playing on Moroccan soil gives the home team a clear advantage, especially given the anticipated crowd support. At the same time, he pointed out that pre-tournament predictions can turn into a source of pressure and do not guarantee results on the field.

Speaking about the situation of the Algerian national team, the coach of the "Greens" emphasized the importance of collective responsibility and starting a new phase, following the early elimination from the group stages in the 2022 and 2024 editions of the Africa Cup of Nations. He believes that the current phase requires rebuilding the squad based on boldness, unity, and mental focus.

Petković emphasized that the primary goal for the Algerian national team in the Morocco 2025 edition is to advance beyond the group stage before considering the later rounds, although he acknowledged that Algeria is one of the strong teams in its group. This requires a realistic approach without making exaggerated promises.

The Algerian national team will play their group stage matches in the city of Rabat, at the Moulay Hassan Stadium, where they will face the teams of Sudan, Burkina Faso, and Equatorial Guinea. This will be a true test of the "Greens'" ability to overcome their previous setbacks and return to the continental forefront.