Newly appointed coach of the national team of Algeria Lucaz Alcaraz says his team can still qualify for the World Cup 2018 in Russia despite their position in the group.
After picking up just one point from their opening two fixtures, Algeria are currently bottom of group B, same point with Zambia with Nigeria top of their group with six points while Cameroon are second with two points.
Alcaraz however insist his team can still qualify if they pick up points in their next back to back games against Zambia, before welcoming Nigeria in their final group game.
“Obviously, we’re not the favourites, but we have to do everything in our power to get as many points and wins as we can,” Alcaraz told FIFA.com.
“We have to fight hard in every game to make sure there are no regrets at the end of it all.
“We’re going to prepare in depth for the two matches against Zambia. The FIFA calendar dictates that our future’s going to hinge on those two games, played in the space of just five days. The players and the staff know what they have to do, what’s expected of them and the importance of these two matches. I need a lot of players for those two games and I’m absolutely convinced that if we beat Zambia, then we’ll qualify.
“If we can get through to the last match (against Nigeria) with morale high and full of hope after a couple of wins, I think we’ll be able to go into it with confidence high.
“If we can win our next home games, we’ll be in a good position to welcome Nigeria on the final day.”
Ade Emmanuel
