2014 World Cup

It was an up and down World Cup for Algeria, which ended with an all-time best finish.

Paraguay 1:1 Algeria
In our first match of group play, Abdelkader Ghezzal opened our account in the 32nd minute. The lead would not hold up though, as Nelson Valdez scored a devastating equalizer just before the half. We had the better of the run of play in the second half but could not convert and had to settle for a point.

Algeria 4:1 Serbia
Slavko Perovic hit us on a counter attack in the 32nd minute to give Serbia the lead. But this time it was us who scored a crucial goal before heading to the changing room when Rafik Halliche scored a set piece goal in stoppage time. Sofiane Hanni would net a second half hat trick to make the difference, and we had a solid four points heading into the final group match.

Croatia 3:0 Algeria
We never got on track in this game and Croatia ran us off the field. We rested some key players but it almost cost us dearly as our goal differential lead was erased and we were even with Serbia in that category. By the strength of our head to head win we did still advance however.

Romania 1:1p Algeria
The first half of our second round match against Romania was a defensive struggle, with both teams struggling to find space. Once again, Rafik Halliche got us on the board just before half time with another set piece goal. It looked like it might hold up, but Cristian Chivu equalized in the 74th. The deadlock lasted throughout all of extra time and the match would be settled on penalties. Mihai Costea missed the first spot kick for Romania and they never recovered, losing 5-4 and we were through to the quarterfinal.

Algeria 0:2 Italy
We were able to create a few chances but Italy were always the better team. Goals by Mario Balotelli (15) and Federico Macheda (58) were all the Azzuri needed and our improbable run to the quarters was over. It was definitely a valiant effort and overall a good showing for Algeria to advance to the quarterfinal. After the tournament, we ascended to the #9 world ranking, the highest Algeria had ever been.

Argentina defeated Brazil 5-4 on penalties in the final after neither team found the net in regular and extra time. France defeated Italy 1-0 to finish third place.

Following the World Cup, I resigned my post with Algeria. After being spurned by my home USA, I took a job with the Costa Rica national team and will double up with Palmeiras.