Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez believes his team can overcome recent AFCON failures as they begin their 2025 campaign in Morocco.
RABAT: Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez is confident his side can make up for poor showings at the last two editions of the Africa Cup of Nations.
The 2019 champions begin their 2025 campaign in Morocco against Sudan on Wednesday.
The Desert Foxes won their second AFCON title the last time it was played in North Africa, six years ago in Egypt.
Their title defence in Cameroon ended in first-round elimination with just a single point.
They also failed to win a match in going out in the group stage in Ivory Coast in 2024.
“There is no doubt that we were not good at the last two AFCONs but that is in the past now,” Mahrez said.
“Now we have the opportunity of a lifetime, the chance to make up for what has happened and do better.”
Algeria are ranked as the fourth-best side in Africa according to the FIFA rankings.
A strong showing in Morocco will also set them up for the World Cup in North America in six months.
Mahrez, now playing for Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, turns 35 in February.
He is excited about Algeria’s new generation, including VfL Wolfsburg forward Mohamed Amoura and goalkeeper Luca Zidane.
Son of France legend Zinedine, Luca Zidane made his Algeria debut in October.
He is seen as a potential solution to what has been a problem goalkeeping position for coach Vladimir Petkovic.
“Luca has integrated well into the squad and is trying to give everything for the team,” said Mahrez.
“I know his name is a big weight to carry but he is not letting that get to him.”
After playing Sudan, Algeria will also face Burkina Faso and Equatorial Guinea in a tricky Group E.
Winning the group would mean a last-16 tie against the runners-up in Group D, which includes Senegal.
Finishing second would likely mean a clash with the winners of Group F, featuring reigning champions Ivory Coast and Cameroon.
