Amrani: "Physical fitness will decide the clash between Stade d’Abidjan and CR Belouizdad"
CR Belouizdad head coach Abdelkader Amrani believes that physical fitness will be the decisive factor when his team faces Ivorian side Stade d’Abidjan in the second round of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League group stage on Saturday.
Both teams will be seeking redemption after suffering defeats in their opening matches. CR Belouizdad lost 2-1 at home to Orlando Pirates, while Stade d’Abidjan were defeated 4-2 by Egyptian giants Al Ahly in Cairo.
A Physically Intense Encounter
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Amrani predicted a physical battle between the two sides.
“The match between CR Belouizdad and Stade d’Abidjan will largely be decided by the physical aspect,” said the Algerian tactician.
Amrani expressed confidence in his team’s improved physical readiness compared to the start of the season.
“We’ve made great strides in terms of physical preparation since the beginning of the season, and our team is in much better shape now,” he added.
Coping With Pressure
Amrani acknowledged the pressure his team faces following their home loss in the first round but emphasized their experience in handling such situations.
“We are accustomed to dealing with pressure, but it’s still there because of the first defeat. Now, both teams are under pressure, as both lost their opening games. I think the difference will come down to physical and mental readiness,” he explained.
Key Absences for Belouizdad
CR Belouizdad will travel to Abidjan without captain Islam Slimani, who is sidelined due to injury.
Amrani lamented the absence of the experienced forward but stressed the importance of not risking his fitness.
“We would have loved to have all our players available. Unfortunately, Slimani is experiencing some pain, and it’s better not to take unnecessary risks with him,” said Amrani.
The clash, set to kick off at 16:00 GMT, offers both teams a chance to get back on track in Group C and keep their qualification hopes alive.