It will be tough if we lose in Nigeria, says Algerian striker Feghouli

Sofiane Feghouli has admitted it will be difficult for Algeria in the World Cup qualifiers if they failed in Nigeria next month, while also being openly critical of ex-coach Milovan Rajevac.

Group leaders Nigeria welcome Algeria on Nov. 12 in Uyo after the North Africans were held to a 1-1 draw at home by Cameroon and have parted ways with Serbian Rajevac.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Feghouli played a vital role in West Ham United’s crucial 1-0 win over Sunderland at the Olympic Stadium on Saturday.

“It will be a difficult trip to Nigeria in November,’’ West Ham United winger Feghouli told reporters.

“We will have to bounce back immediately because if we lose, it will become very complicated to qualify (for the World Cup). We know that.

“Unfortunately, it started badly with the home draw with Cameroon.

“In the group stage, the first match is always very important. But we still have a chance as there are still five matches to go.’’

Feghouli has been fingered out as leading a player rebellion against coach Rajevac, but while being critical on the choice of the Serb, the forward insisted he had never been selfish while playing for Algeria.

“FAF (the Algerian Football Federation) was wrong in the choice of Rajevac,’’ he opened up.

“He did not know the names of the players or their positions. There was very little information on Cameroon. We did not prepare as we should.

“But I was not annoyed that I did not start against Cameroon because I do not have any ego problems when I play for the national team. I play for the flag.’’