A night in Rotterdam ignites hope for Algerian football

According to a Vietnam News Agency correspondent in Algeria, from the capital Algiers, the port city of Oran, Constantine, to southern regions like Ouargla and Tamanrasset, fans unanimously expressed pride in the national team's performance.

Over the years, Algerian football has alternated between hope and disappointment. After winning the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2019, the team experienced many ups and downs, leading many to question whether the "Desert Foxes" could regain their status as one of Africa's football powerhouses.

The victory over the Netherlands did not bring a trophy, but it delivered what fans most desired ahead of the World Cup: belief. Beyond the scoreline, Algeria impressed with disciplined, well-organized play and courageous spirit against an opponent boasting many stars from top European leagues.

On forums and social media, many supporters hailed this as one of Algeria's most convincing performances against a major team in recent years. Numerous people also recalled fond memories of the 2014 World Cup, when Algeria made headlines with a brave display against Germany in the round of 16.

However, amid the excitement, there were also cautious voices. Many fans understood that a friendly match cannot fully reflect the challenges ahead. World Cup opponents will be different, and the pressure of the world's biggest football tournament is much greater.
Nevertheless, the win in Rotterdam brought a rarely seen positive atmosphere before the tournament's kickoff. This result helps reinforce confidence in the current squad, the coaching staff's work, and Algeria's ability to compete against the world's top teams.

For millions of Algerians, the 1-0 victory over the Netherlands is not just a football result. It is a statement that the "Desert Foxes" are capable of entering the 2026 World Cup with their heads held high. And more importantly, after that night in Rotterdam, Algerian fans have begun allowing themselves to dream bigger—not just to participate in the World Cup, but to compete on equal footing with the strongest teams on the planet.