Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 10, 2024 12:56 am GMT
Liberia Gears Up for Tough Clash Against Algeria in AFCON Qualifiers
As the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers heat up, Liberia prepares to face Algeria in an intense Group E match on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. The game is set to take place at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex. With Algeria seeking their second consecutive victory in the qualifiers, the Lone Stars hope to break a six-match winless streak against their opponents, making this clash a pivotal moment for both teams.
Liberia’s Recent Performance
Liberia’s journey in the qualifiers began with a challenging match against Togo, where they managed to earn a point after a dramatic late equalizer. The Lone Stars were initially trailing when Togo’s Kevin Denkey scored in the 80th minute, but William Gibson answered back in the dying moments, securing a 1-1 draw. This resilient display follows a successful preliminary phase where Liberia defeated Djibouti 2-0 on aggregate.
The Lone Stars have shown improvement, going unbeaten in their last five matches, including two wins and three draws across various competitions. Their performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers has been commendable, with Liberia currently sitting third in Group H. They are only three points behind the leaders, Tunisia, making the upcoming match even more crucial.
Algeria’s Strong Start
Algeria enters this match on a high note, having won their latest qualifier against Equatorial Guinea 2-0. Despite a missed penalty from star player Riyad Mahrez in the 24th minute, Houssem Aouar broke the deadlock in the 69th minute, followed by a late goal from Amine Gouiri to seal the victory. This win not only boosted their morale but also marked a turnaround for the team, which had struggled recently.
The Greens started their World Cup qualifying campaign with solid performances, and they lead Group G with nine points, tied with Mozambique. They are aiming to continue their unbeaten streak in AFCON qualifiers, which has extended to 15 matches, including 11 victories since a defeat to Benin in 2018.
A Look at the Teams
Liberia’s Expected Lineup
- Goalkeeper: Koulibaly
- Defenders: Kamara, Swen, Dweh
- Midfielders: Teclar, Sangare, Kenneh, Freeman
- Forwards: Wilson, Sackor, Dorley
Liberia’s head coach Mario Marinica will likely rely on the experience of players like Wilson and the young talent of Gibson as they take on the formidable Algerian side.
Algeria’s Expectation
- Goalkeeper: Mandrea
- Defenders: Mandi, Tougai, Bensebaini, Hadjam
- Midfielders: Bennacer, Zerrouki, Aouar
- Forwards: Mahrez, Benrahma, Bounedjah
Algeria is expected to field a strong lineup, with star player Riyad Mahrez retaining his position after a solid performance despite his missed penalty. The team aims to replicate their form from the previous AFCONs while seeking to progress past the group stages this year.
Historical Context
The historical context of this matchup underscores the challenge Liberia faces. The Lone Stars have not won any of their last six encounters against Algeria, including three losses and three draws dating back to February 1999. This history adds pressure on the Liberian squad as they look to turn the tide and secure their first win against a tough opponent.
Prospects Ahead
With their home advantage, Liberia will need to be at their best against Algeria, a team known for its firepower and exceptional performance in recent qualifiers. The upcoming match is crucial for both teams, as Liberia aims for redemption while Algeria seeks to maintain their strong start to the qualifiers.
Fans and analysts alike are keen to see if Liberia can leverage their fighting spirit and home crowd to secure a crucial victory or if Algeria will continue their winning streak in this Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
If you want to see the stats and predictions for this match, you can find more information. Don’t forget to check our newsletter for updates on this and other exciting games in the AFCON qualifiers!
