CR Belouizdad Aims for Dominant CAF Cup Start as Ramović Seeks Redemption on and off the Pitch
ALGIERS – As the CAF Confederation Cup group stage commences, the pressure is on Algeria’s CR Belouizdad to deliver a performance that matches their continental ambitions. In a revealing pre-match press conference, coach Sven Ramović laid out his dual objectives: securing a crucial victory against Tanzania’s Singida Black Stars and closing a chapter on recent internal squad discord.
A Tactical Battle Against Familiar Foes
Ramović, leveraging his intimate knowledge of Tanzanian football from his tenure with Young Africans, was quick to dispel any notion of complacency. He identified Singida Black Stars, featuring three players from his former club, as a “complicated” opponent that commands “great respect.” This acknowledgment underscores the growing competitive parity in African club competitions, where detailed regional knowledge can be a decisive advantage.
“Since we’re playing at the Nelson Mandela Stadium, we must win to start our campaign strong,” Ramović declared, framing the home fixture as a non-negotiable foundation for a deep tournament run. For clubs like CR Belouizdad, success in continental tournaments is not just about prestige; it’s a significant financial and reputational driver, making a strong start in the group stage imperative.
Addressing On-Field Challenges Head-On
While projecting confidence, the Serbo-German coach was notably candid about his team’s current shortcomings. In a moment of refreshing transparency, he directly acknowledged the team’s struggles in front of goal. “Yes, we have difficulties in attack, and we will work to improve our offensive output,” he stated, a public admission that signals both a clear-eyed assessment of the problem and a commitment to resolving it. This openness places constructive pressure on his attacking unit to deliver against Singida.
Beyond the Pitch: Resolving Conflict with a Charitable Gesture
Perhaps the most significant insight from the press conference was Ramović’s handling of a recent public incident involving player Abderrahmane Meziane. After Meziane refused to shake the coach’s hand during a substitution in a domestic match, a situation that could have festered and divided the squad, Ramović engineered a resolution focused on accountability and reconciliation.
The coach revealed that Meziane agreed to a substantial charitable donation of 300 million centimes and a formal apology. “Therefore, I have forgiven him. God forgives, so why wouldn’t I forgive my player after he accepted everything I mentioned?” Ramović explained.
This approach highlights a modern man-management strategy, transforming a disciplinary issue into an opportunity for personal growth and team unity. By resolving the conflict transparently and moving forward, Ramović has potentially strengthened his authority and squad harmony on the eve of a critical campaign.
The Stakes in Baraki
The match at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Baraki is more than just three points. It is a test of CR Belouizdad’s mental fortitude, their ability to translate ambition into results, and a demonstration that the team is united behind its coach. A victory would not only launch their CAF Cup campaign on a positive note but also serve as a powerful statement that both tactical and personal challenges are being effectively managed.
As Ramović succinctly put it, the goal is to “advance as far as possible,” a journey that begins with overcoming a respected but beatable opponent in front of their home supporters.
This report is based on information from the original source: DZfoot.