Algeria coach fumes at Argentina query: «Austria and Jordan matter too» | OneFootball

Just over two weeks before their World Cup debut against Argentina, Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic expressed his frustration with the media’s exclusive focus on Lionel Scaloni’s team. During the presentation of the 26-man squad for the tournament, the manager stressed: “I’m very concerned that everyone is focused on the match against Argentina; for me, the two games against Austria and Jordan are no less important.”

The Serbian coach reiterated the point when asked another question about the reigning world champions. “It bothers me quite a bit that our group is being reduced to talk only about Argentina. The matches against Austria and Jordan will not be easy at all, contrary to what many imagine,” he said.

Along the same lines, Petkovic explained that his team’s immediate goal is to compete on equal terms throughout the group stage. “We are obliged and committed to avoiding defeat against Austria and Jordan. We will waste a lot of effort if we focus all our attention on one match,” he argued.

Beyond his complaints about the media focus, the coach acknowledged the quality of the Argentine national team and especially praised Scaloni. “We are fortunate to face the reigning champions; what the Argentina coach is doing is magnificent, and I’m very happy for him,” he said. He added: “Scaloni was a great player and a magnificent person, and then he became a great coach. What he has achieved with Argentina is almost a miracle.”

Looking ahead to the opener against La Albiceleste, Petkovic admitted that he still has some doubts about the lineup. “I still haven’t decided who will be the starting striker against Argentina,” he said, referring to the different attacking options he is considering for the June 16 match.

Finally, Petkovic made clear what his team’s ambition is at the World Cup. “I promise you that we will give our maximum effort and fight as hard as we can to leave the team’s name as high as possible,” he said. And he concluded with a concrete goal: “We will do everything possible to avoid playing only three matches and going home.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.