Bougherra sets CHAN as priority while building bridge with Petkovic
Algeria’s local team coach Madjid Bougherra has outlined his ambitious plans for the 2025 CHAN tournament while clarifying his working relationship with senior team manager Vladimir Petkovic.
The former Rangers defender confirmed Algeria will field a domestic-only squad for December’s Arab Cup, unlike their 2021 approach. However, his focus remains firmly on August’s rescheduled CHAN, where he’s targeting qualification against Gambia and ultimately the title.
“I personally pushed for Algeria’s participation,” revealed Bougherra, who has selected a blend of experienced continental players like Zakaria Draoui (MCA) and emerging talents such as Paradou’s Adil Boulbina, this season’s Ligue 1 Mobilis revelation.
The 41-year-old maintains close coordination with Petkovic, noting: “My job is to prepare players for the A-team. Petkovic shows genuine interest in local talents – his visit to our last camp sent a strong message.”
This collaboration comes amid ongoing debates about selection criteria between local and diaspora players.
With limited preparation time, Bougherra acknowledges the challenge but sees CHAN as a crucial platform for Algeria’s homegrown talent. The tournament could prove particularly motivating for local players seeking to impress Petkovic’s scouting team.
