Vladimir Petkovic Defends His Controversial Selections for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations

In just eight days, Algeria will be alive with the excitement of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). After two disappointing previous tournaments, the Fennecs aim to avoid past mistakes. Playing under similar game and weather conditions in Morocco, the team, led by Vladimir Petkovic, has no excuses for poor performance while supported by their fans. Today at 3 PM IST, the 62-year-old coach revealed his highly anticipated squad for the continental tournament. Notably, Petkovic made several bold selections that stand out.

In the goalkeeper position, Petkovic has selected Oussama Benbot and Luca Zidane alongside Anthony Mandrea. Mandrea, previously criticized for playing in France’s third division with Caen, has made a surprising return to the squad for Morocco. The Algerian coach addressed this situation on Saturday, expressing sadness over Guendouz’s injury, which came at the worst possible time. He stated, “For the first match, we will decide two or three days prior. I will let the goalkeepers prove themselves in training to make the right choice. All three have different characteristics, but any of them could be the number one in the competition. I believe I’ve chosen the three goalkeepers who provide the most assurances. Mandrea’s experience with the national team is invaluable. I have full confidence in all my goalkeepers, including Bouhalfaya, who was not called up.”

Vladimir Petkovic Explains Goalkeeper Selections and Arab Cup

In defense, the former Bordeaux coach has taken some risks. While the core of the team remains intact, he has called up Youcef Atal, who has struggled with form for years. The former Nice player used the Arab Cup to regain his fitness, along with Mohamed Tougaï from Espérance Tunis, who is also included in the AFCON squad. During the press conference, Petkovic praised his players for their efforts in the Arab Cup: “It was clear from the start of the Arab Cup that Atal and Tougaï were there to build match fitness. Before the tournament, they weren’t physically ready. I thank the A’ team for giving them game time. They contributed to the team’s success.”

The Arab Cup also saw two attacking players shine, leading Petkovic to include Adil Boulbina and Redouane Berkane in the AFCON squad due to injuries among other forwards. Petkovic noted, “It was obvious from the start that interesting players from the Arab Cup could be named for AFCON. Boulbina and Berkane are players for the future, and this experience will help them perform better down the line. We could have taken 28 players for this AFCON. I’m eager to see them on the field to evaluate their qualities and behavior. I had been following them even when they were in Algeria. Boulbina brings different characteristics; he loves to attack and has a good eye for goal. Berkane too has a keen sense of the goal and good ball protection. We will see how they perform at the next level with us.”

Petkovic’s Candidness on Abdelli and Bentaleb

Finally, Petkovic faced scrutiny for his midfield decisions. Nabil Bentaleb and Himad Abdelli, who are performing well with Lille and Angers, were not included in the squad. This decision sparked discussions on social media, especially with Ramiz Zerrouki, who has struggled with the national team, being selected. Addressing his midfield choices and the absence of talented player Badredine Bouanani, Petkovic responded frankly: “Bentaleb was a technical decision. Among the players available, I feel I have more guarantees with those selected. Bouanani? He is talented and will have his chance in the future but faces tough competition for his position. Abdelli? The reasons are the same as for Bentaleb. They must be ready to join us if needed. Essentially, are we replacing an Aouar or a Maza with Abdelli?” That settles it.