Petkovic Escapes Sack as Algeria Retains Faith in Coach

Despite Algeria’s elimination from the Africa Cup of Nations at the quarter-final stage, coach Vladimir Petkovic has retained the confidence of the Algerian Football Federation (FAF).

The Fennecs fell 0–2 to Nigeria in Marrakech on Saturday, ending their AFCON 2025 campaign. Following the defeat, Petkovic met with FAF officials to review the team’s performance.

According to reports, the Swiss-Bosnian tactician accepted responsibility and acknowledged the superiority of the Super Eagles in his post-match remarks.

FAF leaders, however, have made it clear they are not considering a change. Petkovic has already delivered on key objectives, including securing Algeria’s long-awaited qualification for the 2026 World Cup after a 12-year absence.

He also guided the team back to the AFCON quarterfinals, ending a run of two consecutive group-stage exits.

Under his tenure, Algeria has shown improved performances and unearthed promising talents such as Ibrahim Maza and Rafik Belghali, fueling optimism for the future. The federation believes Petkovic has successfully reshaped the squad and deserves continued backing.

For Algeria, the disappointment of AFCON 2025 is tempered by the progress made under Petkovic, whose leadership has restored belief that the Fennecs can compete at the highest level once again.