Algeria defender Jaouen Hadjam says his side still have areas to improve despite beginning their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 3-1 victory over Zambia.
The Greens secured three points in their opening qualifier in Tizi-Ouzou on Friday night, giving Brahim Hemdani’s side a positive start to their campaign.
Hadjam was pleased with the result but acknowledged that Algeria cannot afford to become complacent following their opening victory.
“The new coach is always trying to give us confidence and to get these qualifiers off to a good start ,” explained the Algerian international.
The result gives Algeria an early boost as they begin their pursuit of qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Playing at home in Tizi-Ouzou, Algeria took advantage of the opportunity to open their campaign with a victory. The three points provide an encouraging foundation for what will be a longer qualifying journey.
However, Hadjam believes there is still work to be done by the team.
The full-back’s assessment reflects a desire for Algeria to build on their result rather than focus solely on the scoreline.
Despite scoring three goals against Zambia, the defender believes the team has room to develop in both areas of the game.
For Algeria, the immediate challenge is to maintain the momentum created by their opening win.
Their next assignment will take them away from home when they travel to Burundi on Tuesday.
Hadjam expects that match to provide a different test, with Algeria having to deal with the demands of playing away from Tizi-Ouzou.
“The next away game against Burundi will be complicated, but we will work hard this week for this match.” Hadjam concluded.
The defender’s comments underline the importance Algeria are placing on their preparation ahead of the second match of the qualifying campaign.
The victory over Zambia has given Hemdani’s side three points, but Hadjam’s assessment suggests the team sees the opening game as the beginning of a process rather than a finished product.
Algeria will now have the chance to demonstrate whether they can carry their positive start into an away fixture.
The trip to Burundi will also give the players another opportunity to adapt to the demands of the qualifiers and build on the confidence gained from their home victory.
