National Team Coach Petković Reverses Stance, Puts Arab Cup Performers in AFCON Contention
In a significant strategic pivot, Algerian national team coach Vladimir Petković has reopened the selection door for players participating in the ongoing FIFA Arab Cup in Qatar, potentially reshaping his final squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
A Tactical Reassessment
Sources close to the technical staff confirm that Petković, who had previously indicated that Arab Cup participants would be excluded from AFCON consideration, has demonstrated newfound flexibility. The coach now plans to closely monitor performances during the group stage matches, particularly ahead of Algeria’s December 9th encounter with Iraq.
This policy reversal represents a pragmatic approach to squad selection, acknowledging that competitive match fitness cannot be replicated in training camps alone. The timing is particularly crucial given CAF’s December 10th deadline for finalizing the 27-man AFCON squad.
Youssef Attal: The Test Case
The first beneficiary of this revised approach appears to be defender Youssef Attal. Previously considered a lock for the AFCON squad, Petković agreed to release the Al-Sadd player for Arab Cup duty after communication with reserve team coach Majid Bougherma.
“This decision reflects Petković’s recognition that Attal, having missed the last two national team camps due to injury, needs competitive minutes to regain his rhythm,” noted a source familiar with the technical staff’s thinking. “The Arab Cup serves as an ideal proving ground ahead of the continental championship.”
Boulbina’s Golden Opportunity
The most intriguing potential beneficiary of this policy shift is Al-Duhail’s Qatari-based forward Adel Boulbina. Petković has reportedly identified a specific need for a left-sided attacker with Boulbina’s profile, particularly given the national team’s limited options in that position.
Boulbina’s recent club form has undoubtedly caught the coach’s attention, highlighted by a remarkable hat-trick against Saudi Arabia’s Ittihad Jeddah. The Arab Cup now presents the Paradou Academy graduate with a direct pathway to continental selection should he excel during the group stage.
Broader Implications for Algerian Football
This strategic flexibility signals a more integrated approach to national team management, bridging the gap between the senior squad and reserve teams. By treating the Arab Cup as both a developmental tournament and a scouting opportunity, Petković maximizes his resources ahead of a crucial continental competition.
The decision also reflects the modern reality of international management, where club commitments and injuries often complicate squad preparation. By maintaining selection flexibility until the final deadline, Petković ensures his AFCON squad reflects both pre-planned strategy and emergent form.
Primary Source: This report is based on information originally reported by El Khabar.