Algeria Coach Vahid Halilhodzic praised a “heroic performance” to beat South Korea 4-2 and revealed his tactical masterstroke.
No African team had ever previously scored four goals in a World Cup and it was only Algeria’s second victory in the tournament, the other being back in 1982.
Algeria Coach Vahid Halilhodzic praised a “heroic performance” to beat South Korea 4-2 and revealed his tactical masterstroke.
No African team had ever previously scored four goals in a World Cup and it was only Algeria’s second victory in the tournament, the other being back in 1982.
“The strength of this team is the collective,” explained the tactician. “We were all a little upset after the unjustified criticism for our 2-1 defeat to Belgium, which is one of the best teams in Europe.
“This team is young and struggles to support the psychological pressure, as we saw again in the second half today. The first half was almost perfect, so we’ll have to discuss whether this slump is physical or psychological.
“Algeria put in a heroic performance and I congratulate all the players. I dedicate this victory to the supporters of Algeria who have been waiting for this moment for 32 years.”
The Desert Foxes will go through to the Round of 16 with a point against Fabio Capello’s Russia.
“We showed pride today. Now we will play against Russia and everything is possible.
“I analysed Korea carefully and with some fresh legs put in place an organisation that could interfere with their system, above all Yacine Brahimi between the lines. The players followed my instructions to the letter.
“As for the fourth goal, that was the kind you teach in a football school. I think the Brazilians in the stadium appreciated it.”