Algerian Ambassador Sabri Boukadoum Hails Players and Fans After Historic World Cup Qualification
By Dr. Hana Saada
KANSAS CITY — Algeria’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Sabri Boukadoum, praised both the national team and Algerian supporters following the Desert Foxes’ qualification for the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the players’ commitment and the atmosphere created by supporters as “extraordinary.”
Speaking exclusively to Dzair Tube after Algeria’s dramatic 3-3 draw against Austria at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Boukadoum commended the determination shown by head coach Vladimir Petković and his players throughout the decisive Group J encounter.
“They were magnificent. They fought until the very end, and that is exactly what was expected from both the players and the coach,” the ambassador said.
Boukadoum also paid tribute to the thousands of Algerian supporters who filled sections of the stadium, saying their unwavering encouragement played a significant role throughout the match.
“Our supporters were magnificent. They stood behind the team from the first minute until the final whistle. They supported the players throughout the entire match, and it was extraordinary,” he said.
Reflecting on the qualification, Boukadoum said the result represented a moment of pride for Algerians everywhere.
“We could not have asked for more than what the team delivered. It was magnificent, and they made all Algerians happy,” he added.
The ambassador also disclosed that he watched the match alongside the Mayor of Kansas City, with both supporting the Algerian national team from the stands. Carrying and waving the Algerian flag throughout the match, they joined thousands of Algerian supporters who backed the Desert Foxes from the opening whistle to the final whistle, creating an electric atmosphere that accompanied Algeria’s qualification for the knockout stage.
Algeria secured qualification for the Round of 32 after earning four points in Group J, advancing alongside group winners Argentina and Austria following one of the most dramatic matches of the group stage.
Played before a vibrant crowd at Arrowhead Stadium, the encounter carried major qualification implications for both sides. With Argentina having already secured first place in the group, Algeria and Austria entered the final fixture knowing that progression to the knockout rounds remained within reach.
Head coach Vladimir Petković introduced four changes to his starting lineup following Algeria’s previous victory over Jordan, and the Desert Foxes responded with a resilient performance that secured only the second World Cup knockout-stage qualification in the nation’s history, matching the achievement first recorded at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
— 𝐄𝐍𝐃 —
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