José Pekerman to Echorouk: “The Greens of Algeria would have qualified with an efficient forward line”

The coach of the Argentine national squad of 2006, José Pekerman has said that the Greens of Algeria would have fared better in the world cup competition if they had a more efficient attacking line. 

• José Pekerman told Echorouk that the disqualification of Algeria in the first round of the world cup contest did not mean that the Algerian players were weak on the pitch but the rule of the game stipulates that only two teams would advance to the second round.
• Echorouk : In a previous statement you told us that you expected England and the USA to qualify for the second round … Could you elaborate.
• Pekerman : Well I should say that I expected these 2 squads to go through to the 8th finals of the competition even though the national team of Algeria demonstrated its prowess and talent during the 2 decisive matches versus England and the USA.
• With a stronger and more efficient forward line, the Greens of Algeria would be now in the second round.
• It’s obvious for me.
• Echorouk : How do you assess the performance of the Greens of Algeria during this world cup?
• Pekerman : Actually, on the whole the team of Algeria played well during the three Group C World cup matches but your players were unable unfortunately to score any goal because of a inefficient forward line.
• In a world, if a team wants to qualify for the next round, it has to win by obviously scoring goals.
• Echorouk : What Algerian players caught your attention during this world cup?
• Pekerman : Undoubtedly, I found the Algerian goalkeeper very good with a remarkable potential. He did a good job notably versus the English and American sides.
• The Algerian midfielders were also up to the mark especially during the breath-taking Algeria – England fixture.
• Echorouk : Finally, according to you, what country will win the 2010 World cup trophy?
• Pekerman : There are several teams like Brazil, Argentina, Germany, England, Spain, Portugal and Uruguay who could clinch the trophy but in my opinion, the trophy will be won by a South American team.