AFCON 2025 : Petkovic Juggles Key Tactical Choices Ahead of Algeria–DR Congo Clash
With 24 hours to go before the Algeria vs. DR Congo clash on Tuesday (5:00 PM) in the Round of 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025), the Algerian coach Vladimir Petkovic is fine-tuning his options, particularly on the defensive side, an area paved with uncertainties yet far from lacking solutions.
Despite the absence of Samir Chergui and Jaouen Hadjam, and with the participation of left-back Rayan Aït-Nouri still uncertain after a severe flu, the coaching staff retains considerable leeway.
A tactical adjustment is therefore not out of the question against the “Leopards,” with the probable deployment of a three-center-back formation. In this setup, Ramy Bensebaïni, Aïssa Mandi, and Zinédine Belaïd could form the central defensive trio.
Belaïd, in particular, stood out in the last group stage match against Equatorial Guinea (3-1), finding the back of the net and demonstrating his ability to perform in crucial moments.
Bensebaïni, a versatile player, can also shift to the left flank if circumstances require, while Mehdi Dorval is expected to step in for Aït-Nouri in case of a withdrawal.
Another option available to Petkovic is to deploy two central defenders (Bensebaïni and Mandi) with two professional full-backs used as wing-backs (Belghali and Dorval).
These options give Petkovic the possibility to adapt his game plan without disrupting the team’s collective balance, while also taking the opponent’s strengths into account.
After rotating his squad against Equatorial Guinea’s “Nzalang Nacional,” the Bosnian coach also allowed several key players, such as captain Riyad Mahrez, Ismaël Bennacer, and Hicham Boudaoui to rest, in preparation for what promises to be an intense and fiercely contested Round of 16.
Facing a Congolese team that performed convincingly in the group stage, with a notable 1-1 draw against Senegal, the Algerian team know that defensive solidity and fitness will be key factors to advance further this 35th edition.
