When we think of candidates to win this year’s 2014 FIFA World Cup we imagine powerhouse nations such as Spain, Brazil, Germany or even Argentina to lift the trophy through the streets of Rio de Janeiro.
But as has happened in previous World Cups, anything is possible and it might be a dark horse that flies directly under the radar all the way to the final.
However, sadly the same cannot be said for some nations, including the largest country within Africa, Algeria.
In 1990 this nation was seen as the catalyst for African football showcasing their unique skill to claim the Africa Cup of Nations crown, but as the years have gone by Algeria has rarely been seen on the national footballing circuit.
Having only qualified for the World Cup three times – 2014 to make it four – the Algerians are fancying their chances to qualify into the last 16, despite being grouped alongside outside favourites Belgium.
It seems unlikely Algeria will trouble the Belgians but many feel as though they could defeat Korea Republic and possibly nip a point against Russia, giving them a slight chance to progress.
Personally I believe the Desert Warriors will be lucky to finish the group stage with one or two points. Facing Belgium in their first match will leave the Algerians dejected and disappointed, as I believe the Red Devils will want to showcase their dominance and attack Algeria with a constant barrage barreling down on goal to score more than three goals.
Another startling fact about Algeria is their failure to score a World Cup goal since 1986. The only player that looks likely to threaten up front would be Valencia’s Sofiane Feghouli. He has already scored five goals for Algeria having only played 17 games, and could break the 28-year streak with a goal against Korea Republic.
Predicted line-up:
Mohamed Lamine Zemmamouche
Aïssa Mandi, Madjid Bougherra, Faouzi Ghoulam, Liassine Cadamuro,
Nabil Bentaleb, Saphir Taider, Yacine Brahimi, Abdelmoumene Djabou
Sofiane Feghouli, Islam Slimani
Subs: Cedric Si Mohamed (GK), Carl Medjani (DEF), Mehdi Mostefa (DEF), Yacine Brahimi (MID), Adlene Guedioura (MID), Nabil Ghilas (FWD).
Star Player:
In what will be his final World Cup, and a retirement from international football seems expected, the Algerian captain Madjid Bougherra has always been a formidable and impressive centre back. He will once again put in an impressive showing.
Predicted Finish:
Fourth in Group H.
About 38.5 million Algerians will be watching this year’s World Cup, hoping for at least one positive result. But having qualified alongside Ivory Coast and Ghana, Algerian football looks to be on the rise once again.
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