While several African nations have bowed out of the Fifa World Cup amid the tournament’s round of 32, Algeria will now look to put themselves among the world’s elite when they take on Switzerland at the BC Place Vancouver Stadium on Friday.
Kick-off is at 5:00am (CAT, GMT+2).
CURRENT FORM
Switzerland booked their ticket into the tournament’s round of 32 after finishing first in group B with seven points, three ahead of host nation Canada.
Nati, as they are affectionately known, commenced their campaign with a 1-1 draw alongside Qatar during matchday one, which was then followed by an emphatic 4-1 win against Bosnia & Herzegovina thereafter.
Switzerland cemented their spot in the knockout rounds via a 2-1 win against Canada in their final group stage match at the BC Place Vancouver Stadium 24 June.
The Fennec Foxes opened their World Cup campaign with a 3-0 loss to reigning champions Argentina at the Kansas City Stadium on 17 June before returning to the winning column thereafter with a 2-1 win over Jordan.
Algeria’s 3-3 draw with Austria in matchday three saw them accumulate four points overall and in turn, qualify for the knockout rounds as one of the best third-placed sides in the showpiece.
WHAT WAS SAID
Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic, who served as Switzerland’s coach between 2014 and 2021, believes that prior ties will not be a factor on Thursday and that his side will do all they can to progress to the next phase of the tournament.
"Just as I know the players, the players know me,” Petkovic said. "And it's a huge pleasure to come up against them, it will be lovely to meet and greet them. But after that, the players will go out there on the pitch.
“And I'm certainly expecting a tough game. And in order to win the match, we need to give 120 per cent against a very decent Switzerland side."
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Switzerland: Granit Xhaka – At 33, Xhaka remains one of Switzerland’s most important players and will play a crucial role in his side’s advancements at the World Cup. As a sitting midfielder, Xhaka consistently showcased his zest in wanting to affect games higher up the pitch, while he carries a serious goal threat in the process.
Algeria: Riyad Mahrez – While Xhaka carries a heavy load for his nation, as a player expected to produce the goods, Mahrez will come in as a big-game player for the Fennecs. Given his technical prowess and goal-scoring ability during tense situations, Mahrez will no doubt look to complete another clutch performance for the North African nation.
HEAD-TO-HEAD
Games: 2
Algeria wins: 0
Switzerland wins: 2
Draws: 0
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