Troussier: Algeria has competent players

Japan former coach Philippe Troussier said he is proud and happy as he may be the Algerian team’s new coach after Brazil’s World Cup 2014. He believes that the national players can beat Belgium and qualify to the second round of the competition.

What do you think about the group which includes Belgium, Algeria, Russia and South Korea?

I think that the World Cup draw came up with strong and balanced groups including the one which includes Belgium, Algeria, Russia and South Korea. As far as I am concerned, those teams’ chances are equal because their objective is to qualify to the second round. All of them have capacities to beat the other. Because of that, the group is difficult and everything is possible.

Yet, Belgium may top this group and qualify to the second round, right?

Yes, it is. Formally speaking, Belgium may qualify to the second round thanks to the new generation of players who work for the biggest European clubs.

Will the first match against Belgium be an obstacle for Algeria?

The match will be in favor of the Algerian team.

How is that?

Generally, first matches are always difficult and complicated. The game between Belgium and Algeria will be the opening match for the group and it is expected to be complicated and difficult. Every team and coach want to reach have a good start. That will cause pressure.

What are Algeria’s chances to qualify to the second round?

As I said all the teams’ chances are equal. This group reminds me of that which included Tunisia, Belgium, Russia and Japan. I was the Japanese team’s coach in the World Cup 2002. Out group was very difficult but Japan qualified.

What do you think of South Korea?

South Korea is also an important team and they also want to qualify to the second round. Their players are strong and fit. They will face Russia in the first match.

Are South Korea’s chances equal to Algeria’s?

The second match between Algeria and South Korea will be like a final game. Algeria should win it as it is the key to qualify to the second round. I believe that it is the most important match for both teams in terms of psychological aspect.

Does Russia have the same chances with Belgium?

Russia is as important as Belgium.

What are your expectations about Algeria’s performance?

In such events, it is difficult to predict results. Yet, I am sure that the Algerian team has large chances to qualify if they prepare well for this event.

You may be Algeria coach after the end of the World Cup. What are your comments about that?

First of all, being the coach of such big team is a big honor to me. I am very happy for that. Yet, I think that it is too early to talk about that.

Are you in contact with Algerian officials?

I have good relationships with the Algerian Federation. Few years ago, I talked to its former president Abdelhamid Hedadj and I also met its current president Mohamed Raouraoua. I am proud of those relationships.

Last word, Mr. Troussier?

I congratulate Algeria once again for qualification to the World Cup. I hope that it will reach the second round and achieve better results compared to previous events.  Algeria will be the only Arab representative.