Doha, December 08 (QNA) - Algeria's head coach Madjid Bougherra said his squad is desperate to secure a win that would lock in their qualification for the quarterfinals of the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, as they prepare to face Iraq tomorrow at Khalifa International Stadium in a decisive Group D clash.

Speaking at the pre‑match press conference, Bougherra stressed that the game is a must‑win showdown that could send Algeria through to the next round.

The team has prepared well, he said, adding that they will treat every game in this tournament like a final, giving everything they have and going in fully focused.

Describing Iraq as a strong, organized opponent, Bougherra warned that the Iraqi side plays with high fighting spirit, a quality that fueled their steady progress after wins over Bahrain and Sudan.

He acknowledged the pressure is intense but insisted it is the kind of pressure that motivates players to keep pushing for results and strengthens their resolve to deliver for the fans.

For his part, veteran midfielder Yacine Brahimi voiced confidence that his teammates are ready, both technically and mentally, for the showdown.

The team is chasing victory, entering every match with the aim of winning. Iraq has good players, so Algeria must bring maximum effort and remain completely focused, he outlined.

Algeria go into the showdown sitting second in the group, having collected four points so far: a win over Bahrain and a scoreless draw with Sudan.

A win tomorrow, Bougherra said, would allow the squad to take a victory lap as they advance to the quarterfinals. (QNA)