Algeria coach Vladimír Petković addressed the challenge of facing Argentina and Messi ahead of their June 17 encounter (4:00 MSK start). When asked if Algeria had a plan to stop Messi, Petković replied: 'No, not more than for any other match. We will simply try to limit the opposing team.'
Petković highlighted Algeria's momentum entering the match. 'Victories are extremely important because victory attracts victories. We have extended our successful streak and want to maintain this momentum before the meeting with Argentina,' he said. The coach credited the earlier win over Bolivia as valuable for giving playing time to multiple squad members.
While acknowledging Argentina as one of the tournament favorites, Petković expressed belief in his team's chances. 'This is a difficult match against one of the favorites, but there is nothing impossible. We must believe in this and deliver even more,' he stated. He also noted African teams have demonstrated their quality at the 2026 World Cup.
Argentina are defending world champions and tournament favorites. Group I match winner and qualification odds reflect Argentina's strength; an upset or draw would shift market valuations.
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