Benchikha: Algeria cannot underestimate Tunisia

Benchikha thinks Tunisia can reach semi-finals Former Algeria national team coach, Abdelhak Benchikha has warned current manager Vahid Halilhodzic not to underestimate African Cup of Nations group rivals Tunisia. Speaking ahead of the mouthwatering group D opener on Tuesday, Benchikha said that Sami Trabelsi's men are "more than capable" of reaching the semi-finals in South Africa.
Benchikha praised Trabelsi for picking a young squad for the tournament, adding that the players have a bright future ahead of them.
Speaking about Algeria, Benchikha said that the Football Federation sees the Tunisia match as a "big fixture" and one which will have an impact on the final standings. He cited concerns about Algeria's weak defence which has struggled since the retirement of influential centre-back Antar Yahia and the injury suffered by Madjid Bougherra.
 Benchikha said Algeria need to be wary of Tunisian striker Issam Jemaa, adding that The Eagles of Carthage have pace and movement in midfield which allows them to mount successful counter-attacks. However, the former Club Africain manager said that Tunisia also have defensive problems with Karim Haggui having announced his retirement from international football.
Benchikha thinks Algeria coach Vahid Halilhodzic will use Islam Slimani as a lone striker with wingers Sofiane Feghouli and Foued Kadir on either side. Such a system will allow the national side to make up for the loss of top scorer Rafik Djebbour.