Algeria boss snaps at Argentina question: ‘Austria and Jordan matter too’ | OneFootball

Just over two weeks before their World Cup debut against the Argentina national team, Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic showed his frustration with the media’s exclusive focus on Lionel Scaloni’s side. While presenting the list of 26 players called up for the tournament, the coach 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 insisted on the issue again when he was asked another question related to the reigning world champion. “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 champion; what the Argentina coach is doing is magnificent, and I’m very happy for him,” he said. He also 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 his 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 keep the team’s name as high as possible,” he said. And he ended 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.