Algeria coach: We had a very good match

Algerian head coach, Rabah Madjer during the FIFA World Cup 2018 qualifying soccer match between Algeria and Nigeria at Chahid-Hamlaoui stadium in Constantine, Algeria, 10 November 2017.

by Graeme Jackson

Wednesday Nov 15, 2017. 15:30

Algeria coach Rabah Madjer was a happy man after watching his team defeat Central African Republic 3-0 in an international friendly at the 5th of July Stadium in Algiers on Tuesday evening.

Two goals from Yacine Brahimi and a late strike by Islam Slimani secured a comfortable victory for the Fennec Foxes in Madjer’s second game in charge since succeeding Lucas Alcaraz.

It followed a few days on from their 1-1 draw with Nigeria in Constantine in their final 2018 World Cup qualifier.

“We had a very good match. We were tactically strong. We have created many opportunities. We dominated the opponent who was solid, especially on the physical level and even in the middle of the field. We scored three goals, it's a good thing for morale,” said Madjer after the match.

The new coach added, "Honestly, I'm happy with the victory because we played attractively, and also for the reaction of the players because they have suffered a lot of pressure lately, but I can tell you that I am not 100 percent satisfied. We still have to work to do.”

Madjer also pointed to Nigeria’s victory over Argentina, and the fact that his team held the Super Eagles, as evidence of progress. He also wants the team’s critics to remain silent for now.

“Nigeria's result in the friendly match against Argentina shows that we are on the right path. We tied against Nigeria after we were led,” explained the coach.

“We had a good match and today's result proves that we are progressing well. It's enough to help us. Even those who are against us must help us by their silence.”