Algerian football sensation Youssef Belaili is ready to help the Desert Warriors to victory in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023.
In a candid conversation with CAFOnline.com, Belaili bared his soul, revisiting the highs and lows of his illustrious career, including the pivotal moments that defined the Desert Foxes’ triumphant journey at the TotalEnergies AFCON Egypt 2019.
Currently leading the scoring charts in the Algerian league with an astonishing 10 goals and eight assists in just 10 matches for Mouloudia Alger, Belaili’s prowess on the pitch is undeniably a force to be reckoned with.
As he gears up for the upcoming TotalEnergies AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire, the star player shared his thoughts on the fierce competition that awaits.
Anticipating a high level of competition, Belaili expressed confidence in the Algerian squad, emphasizing the team’s excellence in physical aspects of the game. “We will give our all to go far in the upcoming TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations,” he asserted, highlighting the determination within the team.
When asked about Algeria’s chances in a group featuring Burkina Faso, Angola, and Mauritania, Belaili exuded optimism. “We have an excellent team, and we will travel to Cote d’Ivoire to achieve a good result, and why not win the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of the Nations,” he declared with conviction.
Reflecting on the goals set by the Algerian coach for the upcoming AFCON, Belaili acknowledged the challenges faced in the previous edition and outlined winning the title as their primary objective. Drawing inspiration from their successful campaign in Egypt 2019, where unity and a shared goal propelled them to victory, the Desert Foxes aim to replicate that success in Cote d’Ivoire.
Recalling the memorable TotalEnergies AFCON Egypt 2019, Belaili shared his fondest memory—the beautiful goal against Senegal that secured their spot in the second round. He emphasized the team’s commitment to bringing joy to the Algerian people, assuring fans that more triumphs are on the horizon.
Addressing the missed penalty shootout against the Ivory Coast in the quarter-finals of the 2019 edition, Belaili acknowledged the pressure but remained resilient. Despite hitting the post, the subsequent miss by the Ivorian player propelled Algeria into the semi-finals against Nigeria, ultimately leading to their Africa Cup victory.
As the football world eagerly awaits the kick-off in Cote d’Ivoire, Youssef Belaili stands ready to script another chapter of glory for the Desert Foxes, fueled by the memories of past triumphs and the unwavering support of the Algerian people.
