Sidi Moussa, December 17, 2025 – The Algerian national team, “Les Fennecs” (The Desert Foxes), have expressed their unwavering determination to bring home the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy from neighboring Morocco, the host nation for the 2025 tournament. The competition is scheduled to commence on December 21st and run through January.
Speaking to the media at the team’s training camp in Sidi Moussa, players conveyed a strong sense of confidence and ambition.
Forward Ibrahim Maze stated that the team possesses all the necessary ingredients to compete fiercely for the title. He emphasized that thorough preparation will be the key to achieving positive results, alongside maintaining strong motivation and unity within the squad.
Midfielder Fares Chaibi echoed this sentiment, asserting that the entire team is eager to secure the championship. “We are Algeria,” he declared, “and in every edition of the African Cup of Nations, whether we are traveling or hosting, we play to win. We are going to Morocco to win the title.”
Chaibi also highlighted the importance of a strong start to the tournament. “We have discussed amongst ourselves, the players, and agreed that the first match is crucial. It immediately immerses us in the competition, just like in 2019 when the team performed well from the first game and ultimately won the title. Therefore, we will try to demonstrate our readiness and deliver a good performance.”
Defender Ilan Kebbal added that he and his teammates are heading to Morocco aiming to “deliver a great African Cup of Nations, and why not, compete for the title.” He further stated, “I am ready to fulfill my duty with the national team in my first participation in the African Cup of Nations.”
Goalkeeper Anthony Mandrea assured fans that the team has prepared diligently for the prestigious continental tournament. “We have prepared very well, and we are highly focused. I can assure you that we are fully ready for this continental challenge.”
Earlier today, the national team held a training session, the first fifteen minutes of which were open to the media. The team, led by captain Riyad Mahrez, then continued their closed-door preparations for the “CAN Morocco 2025”. Algeria will begin their campaign against Sudan in the opening group stage match on December 24th.
