Preview Line Up Formation England vs Algeria Predictions

Preview Line Up Formation England vs Algeria Predictions

England return to action against Algeria after a disappointing draw against the USA. With morale damaged and the manager’s tactics being questioned, England will no doubt want to secure a comfortable win against Algeria to relieve some of the pressure and aid their journey to the knockout stages of the competition.

Algeria, meanwhile, fresh from a 1-0 defeat to Slovenia, will be hoping to register their first points at the 2010 World Cup, the second in their history, and cling on to a slim chance of qualification to the next round. Internal confrontations have plagued the Algerians following manager Rabah Saadane’s decision to drop captain Yazid Mansouri to the bench ahead of the defeat against Slovenia.

The Africans' route to qualifying concluded in the Sudan with a play-off victory against bitter rivals Egypt. The game was marred by violence as both teams' buses were attacked on the way to the stadium with players sustaining injuries.

Against Slovenia, the Algerians created very few clear-cut opportunities. The Portsmouth left-back Nadir Belhadj threatened from dead ball situations and it took a smart save from Slovenia goal-keeper Samir Handanovic to keep Belhadj’s swerving free-kick at bay.

The 4-5-1 formation employed by Saadane, clearly emphasises the need to shackle opponents' creative play and the England midfield will have to work hard to find space against the barrier of Algerian midfielders.

England will have to deal with the running of Rafik Djebbour. The striker showed willingness in the opening game and his pace and direct approach caused problems to the Slovenian back-line. With the lack of pace in the heart of England’s defence a concern, the Algerians may look to capitalise by attempting to get Djebbour in behind.