Algeria relying on next generation ahead of Brazil 2014
AFP, Monday 2 Dec 2013


Algeria have experienced some highs and lows at their three previous World Cups but a new generation around captain Madjid Bougherra hope to create new highs at Brazil 2014.

Algeria famously beat reigning European champions West Germany in their first ever World Cup match in 1982.

In the last group match, the Germans defeated Austria 1-0 in a controversial match which sent both Europeans to the next stage and the north Africans home.

In 1986, Algeria scored just one goal in collecting one point before heading back home. In South Africa, Algeria held England to a scoreless draw and then almost eliminated the United States until a second half stoppage time goal by Landon Donovan clinched a 1-0 win - and another early exit for Algeria.

The absolute leader of Vahid Halilhodzic's Algeria team in Brazil will be Bougherra, who earned a reputation as an uncompromising defender during his stops with Charlton Athletic and Glasgow Rangers.

But Halilhodzic has young talent to mould into form as well in the likes of 23-year-old midfielder Sofiane Feghouli from Valencia and 21-year-old forward Ishak Belfodil from Inter Milan.

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