Algeria B Coach: "Arab Cup Resembles Africa Cup; Matches Between Arab Teams Are Derbies and Football Wars"

Majid Bougherra, coach of the Algerian B national team, likened the Arab Cup to the Africa Cup of Nations, emphasizing that the tournament's matches would be "Arab derbies" characterized by intense rivalry and high enthusiasm. Speaking at a press conference held to announce the squad for the two friendly matches against Egypt, Bougherra stated: "The excitement in this edition of the Arab Cup is much greater than the previous one. We can say that the Arab Cup has become more like a major competition such as the Africa Cup."

He continued: "All participating teams in the Arab Cup will enter the competition with a fighting spirit, regardless of their quality or FIFA ranking. Even teams without significant experience will fight with everything they have, because it's an Arab Cup. When Arabs face each other, it's like a football war and akin to Arab derbies."

Bougherra added: "Matches will be charged with a lot of enthusiasm, emotion, and rivalry. Therefore, the mental aspect and strong character will play a decisive role. Experience is a fundamental factor within the squad."

He concluded: "All matches will be difficult, especially for us as the title holders, as everyone will have a double desire to defeat us, which means the challenge will be greater. With all these unique characteristics, there will be many things that need to be handled intelligently. It's too early to identify the teams that might pose a real threat to us."