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KANSAS CITY, Missouri — The continuous support of Algeria does not surprise coach Vladimir Petković.
Throughout his two-year tenure, the fans have traveled near and far to support Les Fennecs.
When his team opens World Cup play on Tuesday, June 15, Petković knows Algerian fans will be outnumbered. Algeria faces defending World Cup champions Argentina at Arrowhead Stadium.
“Tomorrow, there may be 50,000 from Argentina fans, but 15,000 our fans,” Petković said through translation. "I think they may be able to even things up as part of a decibel level.”
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Algeria has enjoyed base camp in Lawrence, Kansas, 30 minutes west of its World Cup opener. It’s been one of the most unlikely of friendships between the nation and the host city.
From earthwork art of the Algerian flag to celebrations for the team, Lawrence natives have come together to honor the North African nation.
The coach is certainly feeling the appreciation from the college town. The first week has simply blown Petković away.
“Seeing 5-600 people that first evening, fans that were waiting outside our hotel, it really gave me goosebumps,” Petković said. “It filled me with a source of pride. We saw that there were so many US citizens that had scarves for us. They showed so much support and they wanted to celebrate this moment with the team.”
Algeria will certainly have its hands full against Argentina. Petković is aware of the challenges that Argentina possesses, but he wants to be clear that one match does not define the group stage of the World Cup.
With eight third-place teams advancing to the knockout round, teams will like their chances to move on in spite of a loss.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni made it clear that the first match is not the be-all and end-all. Scaloni should feel this way after his side lost to Saudi Arabia in the first match of the 2022 World Cup only to win the title a few weeks later.
Petković agreed with Scaloni’s assessment.
“I see things the same way as Lionel. I think it's an important fixture to get points on the board,” Petković said. “Provoking Argentine players is like trying to kick the hornet’s nest, would be unfair and risky. We have the utmost respect for them.”
Petković stated that all players are fit and healthy for selection against Argentina. While they are underdogs, Algeria certainly has world class players who can make an impact.
Midfielder Riyad Mahrez and striker Amine Gouiri are two examples of match winners, while left back Rayan Aït-Nouri can defend and produce moments of brilliance in Algeria’s attack.
While Algerians will be supporting their home nation, Kansas has a team to root for as well. Lawrence’s support has meant the world to Petković, and he intends for his team to deliver, while hoping to see even more Kansans supporting his side.
“From a football standpoint, that we can also get through to the knockout stage and maybe everyone from Kansas can travel with us to another city,” Petković said.
Liam Keating covers the World Cup in Kansas City for USA TODAY. He also covers high school sports and Washburn University for The Topeka Capital-Journal. Send stats or information to him at [email protected]
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How Algeria is preparing to face Argentina in 2026 World Cup opener
Continue reading...
Throughout his two-year tenure, the fans have traveled near and far to support Les Fennecs.
When his team opens World Cup play on Tuesday, June 15, Petković knows Algerian fans will be outnumbered. Algeria faces defending World Cup champions Argentina at Arrowhead Stadium.
“Tomorrow, there may be 50,000 from Argentina fans, but 15,000 our fans,” Petković said through translation. "I think they may be able to even things up as part of a decibel level.”
World Cup: From Kansas to Algeria: Check out this massive World Cup flag art
World Cup: Will Lionel Messi play for Argentina vs. Algeria? Latest injury update
Kansas support gives Algeria coach "goosebumps"
Algeria has enjoyed base camp in Lawrence, Kansas, 30 minutes west of its World Cup opener. It’s been one of the most unlikely of friendships between the nation and the host city.
From earthwork art of the Algerian flag to celebrations for the team, Lawrence natives have come together to honor the North African nation.
The coach is certainly feeling the appreciation from the college town. The first week has simply blown Petković away.
“Seeing 5-600 people that first evening, fans that were waiting outside our hotel, it really gave me goosebumps,” Petković said. “It filled me with a source of pride. We saw that there were so many US citizens that had scarves for us. They showed so much support and they wanted to celebrate this moment with the team.”
Opening World Cup match downplayed
Algeria will certainly have its hands full against Argentina. Petković is aware of the challenges that Argentina possesses, but he wants to be clear that one match does not define the group stage of the World Cup.
With eight third-place teams advancing to the knockout round, teams will like their chances to move on in spite of a loss.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni made it clear that the first match is not the be-all and end-all. Scaloni should feel this way after his side lost to Saudi Arabia in the first match of the 2022 World Cup only to win the title a few weeks later.
Petković agreed with Scaloni’s assessment.
“I see things the same way as Lionel. I think it's an important fixture to get points on the board,” Petković said. “Provoking Argentine players is like trying to kick the hornet’s nest, would be unfair and risky. We have the utmost respect for them.”
Vladimir Petković hopes Kansas support continues
Petković stated that all players are fit and healthy for selection against Argentina. While they are underdogs, Algeria certainly has world class players who can make an impact.
Midfielder Riyad Mahrez and striker Amine Gouiri are two examples of match winners, while left back Rayan Aït-Nouri can defend and produce moments of brilliance in Algeria’s attack.
While Algerians will be supporting their home nation, Kansas has a team to root for as well. Lawrence’s support has meant the world to Petković, and he intends for his team to deliver, while hoping to see even more Kansans supporting his side.
“From a football standpoint, that we can also get through to the knockout stage and maybe everyone from Kansas can travel with us to another city,” Petković said.
Liam Keating covers the World Cup in Kansas City for USA TODAY. He also covers high school sports and Washburn University for The Topeka Capital-Journal. Send stats or information to him at [email protected]
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How Algeria is preparing to face Argentina in 2026 World Cup opener
Continue reading...
