What Went Right? Well, they did stay disciplined and tactically rigid in the back like mostly every other neophyte in this tournament, but I must admit they showed a decided flair for counterattacking down the flanks, which actually kept their opponents on their heels and kept them from sending numbers forward. Used lots of crosses, long passes and through balls to their front players. Athletic and fast side (like mostly every African side) that used that to their advantage in the back, compacting the center of the field when not in possession and keeping the ball in front of them at all times – and it worked pretty well, giving up only 2 goals in three games.
What Went Wrong? Not the most sustained attack or refined finishing skills. Even though they played everybody straight up, they chose to chase the game rather than dictate play and control tempo. Absolutely no midfield control at all. Didn’t use the center of the field when they attacked (however infrequent that was). Made lots of crosses, long passes and through balls to nobody in particular, just kind of hoping somebody – ANYBODY – would run onto them. One of only two sides that didn’t score a goal, so clearly they couldn’t finish to save their lives. Was never really sure what their attack (such as it was) was trying to accomplish. With a legitimate chance to make it through to the knockout round, Algeria played as if that wasn’t even a consideration, choosing to just survive rather than advance.
Who Stepped Up To The Plate? Faouzi Chaouchi showed good stopping ability in goal. Fantastic D from center backs Antar Yahia and Rafik Halliche and fullbacks Nadir Delhadj and Madnid Bougherra, both of whom did a better job of distribution than the midfielders. Karim Ziani tried to jumpstart the attack.
Who Didn’t Show Up? The midfield of Medhi Lacen, Hassan Yebda, Karim Matmour and Foued Kadir were fast in attack and pretty good at spacing – and that’s about it. Mundane things like creating attacks, through balls, passing and service just weren’t part of their repertoire. We won’t even discuss the front men; as far as I’m concerned they weren’t there.
How Was The Coaching? This is what the FIFA bio says on coach Rabah Saadane: “His 19 years of experience are largely limited to Northern African football and, as such, his tactical plans can come unstuck against unfamiliar opponents.” Gee, ya think? What gave it away?
Did They Finish Where They Were Expected? Uh huh.
Now What? Go out and get a Brazilian or Argentine coach. At least you’ll score some goals.