Petković: The substitutes made the difference, and this is Ben Nacer's condition
Algerian national team coach Vladimir Petković praised the team spirit and collective performance of his players after qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals by winning against the Democratic Republic of Congo with a goal in the final moments of extra time, affirming that the strength of the “Desert Warriors” lies in the readiness of all members without exception.
Petković explained that the substitutes played a pivotal role in the team's journey, saying that most players participated during the first three matches, which made the substitution process in the round of 16 match difficult due to fatigue, but at the same time, he expressed his full satisfaction with what the players delivered on the field.
The Swiss coach addressed the condition of midfielder Ismaël Bennacer, noting that the player felt some discomfort and will undergo medical examinations to accurately determine his status before the upcoming match against Nigeria.
Regarding tactical aspects, Petković confirmed that the team entered the match with the desire to possess the ball and play at a fast pace, which led him to rely on Amoura as a striker, adding that the team dominated the last 30 minutes and succeeded in converting their superiority into a decisive goal.
The Algerian coach concluded his statements by expressing his great happiness with what 17 players showed during the match, clearly indicating the depth of the squad and the mutual trust within the group.
Petković explained that the substitutes played a pivotal role in the team's journey, saying that most players participated during the first three matches, which made the substitution process in the round of 16 match difficult due to fatigue, but at the same time, he expressed his full satisfaction with what the players delivered on the field.
The Swiss coach addressed the condition of midfielder Ismaël Bennacer, noting that the player felt some discomfort and will undergo medical examinations to accurately determine his status before the upcoming match against Nigeria.
Regarding tactical aspects, Petković confirmed that the team entered the match with the desire to possess the ball and play at a fast pace, which led him to rely on Amoura as a striker, adding that the team dominated the last 30 minutes and succeeded in converting their superiority into a decisive goal.
The Algerian coach concluded his statements by expressing his great happiness with what 17 players showed during the match, clearly indicating the depth of the squad and the mutual trust within the group.