CAN 2025 / Algeria – Sudan: Petkovic already calls for improvement

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·24 December 2025

CAN 2025 / Algeria – Sudan: Petkovic already calls for improvement

Speaking at the post-match press conference after Algeria’s opening victory against Sudan (3-0), Vladimir Petkovic offered a nuanced analysis, balancing satisfaction with the result and a demand for improvement. The coach did not shy away from pointing out some of the tactical errors seen on the pitch, reminding everyone of the unique challenges that come with a tournament opener:

"The first match is always hard to predict. We played well, but then we made things complicated for ourselves by giving Sudan some chances."

Fully aware that this successful start can’t be taken as an absolute benchmark, Petkovic was quick to shift his focus to the rest of the competition:

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"The second match will be different. Of course, we’ll need to improve certain things, but we still won 3-0."

A clear message intended to keep standards high, despite the flattering scoreline.

The Swiss-Bosnian tactician also praised several individual performances, highlighting the reassuring presence of his goalkeeper:

"I think Zidane gave the team security; he played well with his feet, and it’s one of his first matches for the national team."

He then broadened his remarks:

"What matters is to have players like Belghali… he showed his worth. Bennacer faced some difficulties… now he’s much more stable… and it’s clear how important he is to our team."