Riyad Mahrez has made it clear that Algeria are determined to reset their Africa Cup of Nations story as they prepare to open their campaign in Morocco. Speaking ahead of their Group E opener against Sudan in Rabat, the Algeria captain said the Desert Foxes are focused on restoring pride after disappointing exits in the last two editions of the tournament. As 2019 champions, expectations remain high, and Mahrez believes this squad has both the motivation and quality to meet them.
Algeria last lifted the AFCON trophy six years ago in Egypt, when the competition was staged in North Africa. That success has since been followed by frustration. Their title defence in Cameroon ended at the group stage with just one point, and the struggles continued in Ivory Coast in 2024, where they failed to win a single match. For Mahrez, those results are no longer a burden but a lesson.
“There is no doubt that we were not good at the last two AFCONs but that is in the past now. All that is behind us,” Mahrez said Tuesday in Rabat, where Algeria play Sudan on Wednesday.
“Now we have the opportunity of a lifetime, the chance to make up for what has happened and do better. Tomorrow it is time for this generation.”
Algeria arrive in Morocco ranked fourth in Africa by FIFA, a position that reflects their depth and experience. A strong showing at AFCON would also provide momentum ahead of the World Cup in North America, where Algeria will compete for the first time since 2014. With that global stage just six months away, this tournament carries added significance.
Why This AFCON Matters for Algeria’s New Generation
Mahrez, now playing for Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League, will turn 35 in February, making this AFCON potentially one of his final major international tournaments. Rather than focusing on that reality, he has highlighted the energy and promise within the squad. Players such as VfL Wolfsburg forward Mohamed Amoura represent the attacking future, while new faces are stepping into key roles across the pitch.
One of the most closely watched additions is goalkeeper Luca Zidane. Born in Marseille and currently playing for Granada in Spain’s second division, Zidane made his Algeria debut in October. The son of France legend Zinedine Zidane, he carries a famous name but is being judged on his own performances. For coach Vladimir Petkovic, the goalkeeper position has been an ongoing concern, and Zidane is seen as a possible long term solution.
“Luca has integrated well into the squad and is trying to give everything for the team,” said Mahrez, who was born in France to an Algerian father and a Moroccan mother.
“I know his name is a big weight to carry but he is not letting that get to him.”
What Challenges Await Algeria in Group E and Beyond
Algeria’s path will not be straightforward. After facing Sudan, they will meet Burkina Faso and Equatorial Guinea in a competitive Group E that offers little margin for error. Finishing top of the group would set up a last 16 clash against the runners up in Group D, which includes Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Ending second could mean a showdown with the winners of Group F, featuring reigning champions Ivory Coast and Cameroon.
By Yockshard Enyendi