Algerian players during a training session.
Doha, Qatar: Defending champions Algeria will be aiming for a victory against Iraq tonight in their final Group D match, seeking a smooth progression to the quarter-finals of the FIFA Arab Cup.
With Iraq already through to the next stage, Algeria need just a point to confirm their place in the last eight. The Desert Foxes sit on four points after a 5-1 win over Bahrain, which followed a goalless draw against Sudan. Sudan, with one point, face Bahrain in a simultaneous fixture.
Algeria can still advance even if Sudan draw level with them on points, as they currently enjoy a six-goal advantage in goal difference.
Coach Madjid Bougherra is calling for another strong showing after the emphatic win over Bahrain.
“Our focus is on reaching the quarter-finals, and we are looking to continue delivering a strong performance after the Bahrain match,” Bougherra said on the eve of the match at Khalifa International Stadium.
“The match will be difficult against an organised Iraqi team with good players who performed at a top level in their first two games against Bahrain and Sudan,” he added, noting that the pressure on the squad serves as strong motivation.
Algerian star Yacine Brahimi also expressed confidence ahead of the clash.
“I am fully ready for the match. I played against Bahrain, and I will keep working to be ready to serve the coach and the national team,” he said.
“It is important for me to share the experience I’ve gained throughout my career with the new players, and our goal is to build harmony within the national team.”
Iraq, who edged Bahrain 2-1 before defeating Sudan 2-0, are aiming to maintain their perfect run.
“Our preparations have gone well, and we look forward to performing at our best and achieving victory, even though we have already secured qualification for the quarter-finals,” said Iraq coach Graham Arnold.
“We have no injuries, and striker Ayman Hussein will be available after recovering from the minor injury he suffered in the first match against Bahrain.”
Sudan must convert chances into goals: Appiah
Meanwhile, Sudan coach Kwesi Appiah is hoping his side can finally find the net in their match against Bahrain at Education City Stadium.
Sudan have shown promise but remain without a goal in the tournament.
“We are still facing a problem of scoring goals, as we have unfortunately not scored any goals so far despite creating multiple chances,” Appiah said.
“Under our current circumstances, it’s difficult, especially since some of our players have suffered injuries and are now recovering.”
“It might be difficult to get everything you want right away, but ultimately the main objective of any team is to score goals. We are working on that, and I believe that sooner or later the problem will be solved and our scoring ability from various positions will return,” he added.
“The problem lies in the final touch, and I am convinced that a solution will appear on the horizon with the arrival of new players.”
Bahrain coach Dragan Talajic, whose side has already been eliminated after back-to-back defeats, hopes to end the campaign on a positive note.
“We are ready for the match, our final game in the tournament, after losing hope of competing. The result is important to us so we can make our fans happy,” he said.
