Algeria’s tactics are built around the game winning potential of Karim Ziani, too often guilty of over elaboration and of losing possession. The diminutive winger spends his time on the right, looking to run at opposing defences.

Meghni is a new find and a good counter on the left side of attack but faces a battle to get fit in time for the World Cup. With plodding strikers in Ghezzal and Matmour, there is too much of a reliance on the players across the middle.

Hassen Yebda will look to provide some playmaking qualities. Algeria therefore will be well prepared to take advantage of set pieces and look to get their sizeable back four forward on as many occasions as possible.

A dangerous weapon too is Nader Belhadj, continually overlapping on the left hand side.

Team – 4-4-2
Gaouaoui; Yahia, Halliche, Bougherra, Belhadj; Mansouri, Yebda, Meghni, Ziani; Matmour, Ghezzal.

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