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Leekens named Algeria coach until 2019

Xinhua, October 29, 2016 Adjust font size:

The Algerian Soccer Federation (FAF) on Friday appointed Georges Leekens from Belgium as head coach of the first team until the African Nations Cup of 2019.

Leekens replaced Serbian Milovan Rajevac who was due to mutually terminate his contract after drawing at home against Cameroon in the opening qualifiers of 2018 World Cup.

This is the second time Leekens (67) leads the North African team after a short experience of six months in 2003.

On Thursday, FAF posted a statement on its official website to announce the arrival of Leekens who "was chosen out of a short list of five coaches."

Leekens has, for now, two weeks only to prepare a crucial game against Nigeria in the second day of 2018 World Cup qualifiers.

Also, the Belgian coach is tasked with the mission of leading the Desert Foxes to the semifinals stage of the 2017 African Nations Cup due in Gabon (Jan 19-Feb.10).

Fans expect Leekens to clinch the African Nations Cup, regarding the talented players he has at the squad, including Leicester City duet Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani.

The only and last time Algeria won the African Cup was at home in 1990. Endit