Bitkovic: Argentina is the Top Contender to Win the World Cup

Coach Vladimir Petković acknowledged the difficulty of the task awaiting the Algerian national team at the start of their journey in the 2026 World Cup, affirming that facing Argentina represents a heavyweight test against one of the strongest teams favored to win the title.

Petkovic stated in comments to Algerian public television: "The Argentine national team is not only the top contender against Algeria, but it is also considered the primary favorite to win the World Cup compared to all the teams participating in the tournament."

The Bosnian coach added: "We will face the world champion, a team with great experience and high technical capabilities, which makes this match one of the toughest challenges awaiting us in the first round."

He continued by saying: "We are well aware of the strength of the opponent, but we will enter the match with a competitive mindset and great ambition to achieve a positive result. Football has repeatedly proven that surprises remain possible no matter how strong the opponent is."

Petkovic pointed out that "the players are aware of the magnitude of the responsibility placed upon them, and they will give their all to deliver a performance worthy of Algerian football and enhance the team's chances in the competition."

The Algerian sports community is eagerly anticipating the upcoming match against Argentina, with hopes pinned on the "Greens" to make a strong start in the World Cup and deliver an honorable performance against the world champions and one of the top contenders to retain the title.