Djamel Belmadi looking for reaction in Algeria’s next clash

by Helder Ribiero

Saturday Oct 12, 2019. 17:00

Algeria coach Djamel Belmadi says he is looking for a reaction from his players when they face Colombia in an international friendly on Tuesday in Lille, France.

The Africa Cup of Nations champions put in a somewhat underwhelming performance in a 1-1 draw with DR Congo in Blida on Thursday night.

Islam Slimani gave the Fennec Foxes an early lead, but the Leopards hit back through Cedric Bakambu and held the continental kings to a stalemate.

“We missed a bit of rhythm against a Congolese team that plays fast. We could have done better,” explained Belmadi, as quoted by Africa Top Sports.

“There were players who had the opportunity to show themselves, they proclaimed it but it was difficult for them. I do not like to name players but I was expecting more from some of them.

“We have a problem with stability. We always want new players, new systems.”

Belmadi continued, “The ideal for me is when we change [the team], we do not see too much difference.

“The opponent of the day was difficult to handle, they have interesting statistics, they had reached the semifinals of the AFCON twice in recent years, I do not take away their merit, the Congolese were well organised.

“There was frustration, but I’m not used to blaming my players. I cannot wait to see their reaction in the second friendly match against Colombia.”