Since the arrival of Luca Zidane, the position of goalkeeper for the Algerian team has taken on a new dimension. Holder in previous outings, Alexis Guendouz saw the light shine on his competitor, preferred by Vladimir Petkovic for the last match against Uganda. In the mixed zone, following the victory (2-1), the MC Alger goalkeeper spoke for the first time since this sidelining. The tone, initially serious and measured, gave rise to fears of a bitter reaction. Some journalists were already talking about tension in the Greens locker room.
Luca Zidane welcomed with respect
But far from the rumors of frustration, Guendouz delivered a message of rare elegance. “We should not try to create friction between the goalkeepers, these are not questions that arise. You saw, he had a very good match,” he said calmly. In a few words, the Algerian goalkeeper defused any controversy, refusing to fuel a media duel with Zinédine Zidane's son. These comments, welcomed by supporters, demonstrate remarkable maturity in a context where competition is often a source of divisions.
For his first cape, Luca Zidane seduced with his serenity and his attitude. His express integration into the group, his professionalism and his proximity to the other goalkeepers reinforced the collective spirit desired by Petkovic. Guendouz's congratulations are part of this logic: that of a selection where the hierarchy is built on merit and solidarity. The Bosnian technician, who advocates a locker room “united in diversity”also welcomed this attitude internally.
A strong message for the unity of the Fennecs
Beyond the symbolic gesture, this media release marks a turning point in the perception of the Algerian group. After the recurring controversies surrounding dual nationals, seeing a local championship executive defend a renowned newcomer sends a strong signal. Far from rivalries of status or origin, the Fennecs display a collective face. And it is perhaps in this balance between humility and ambition that Algeria will find the key to its global future.
Qualification is achieved, but the hardest part begins. Between popular expectations and the pressure of returning to the World Cup, every word counts. By choosing appeasement and respect, Alexis Guendouz pointed out the obvious: the success of the Fennecs will depend on cohesion above all. A lesson in elegance that deserves as much praise as the performances on the pitch.
