The Algerian national under-15 football team suffered a defeat against Albania, losing 1-4 in the match held as part of the ranking playoffs for Tier A of the inaugural FIFA World Cup and Festival in the Azerbaijani capital, Baku.
The "Greens" had achieved perfect results in the group stage, winning all four matches against Argentina (1-0), Suriname (5-0), Chinese Taipei (5-0), and Malawi (4-0), in addition to a thrilling draw with Oman (3-3).
However, the dream of competing for the World Cup faded in the round of 32, after losing to Guinea on penalties (2-4) this morning, following a goalless draw in regular time, which pushed the team into the ranking matches.
In the ranking path for positions (17 to 32), which FIFA uses to provide maximum international exposure for young players, Algeria faced Albania (which was also eliminated by Egypt 1-2). The Algerian defense struggled to contain the Albanians' attacking prowess, resulting in a significant defeat (4-1) for Algeria.
After this harsh defeat, Algeria's hopes of finishing in the positions (17-24) were dashed, officially sending the "Greens" into the last phase of Tier A, specifically competing for positions 29 to 32.
The Algerian team will need to regain their focus in their final ranking match of the tournament to avoid finishing at the bottom of the overall standings in Tier A before the end of the tournament and their return home.
