AFCON 2025: Algeria hero Mahrez sets sights on 2013 finalists

Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez has signalled his determination to push the Desert Warriors deep into AFCON 2025 after a dominant opening win in Group E.

The veteran winger insists the focus is firmly on consistency and the next challenge rather than silencing critics.

Riyad Mahrez played a starring role as Algeria opened their AFCON 2025 campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Sudan in Rabat.

The Al Ahli forward scored twice before Ibrahim Maza added his first international goal, handing Algeria a perfect start in Group E. At 34, Mahrez also became Algeria’s all-time top scorer at the Africa Cup of Nations with eight goals, further underlining his importance to the team.

Despite recent scrutiny following Algeria’s group-stage exits in the last two editions of the tournament, Mahrez dismissed suggestions that his performance was motivated by criticism. “This wasn’t about answering criticism. I’m used to it,” he told reporters. “My reply is to concentrate on my game on the pitch.”

He explained that Algeria approached the match with clarity and calm. “We came in with a clear plan to play without overthinking, to win this one and the rest of our group matches to make the path easier,” Mahrez added.

With three points secured, Mahrez has already turned attention to Algeria’s next opponents, Burkina Faso, the 2013 AFCON finalists.

The Desert Warriors currently top Group E and face the Stallions on Sunday in what is expected to be a sterner test.

“It’s good to score — it brings confidence — but the team has to keep lifting our level so we’re more consistent,” Mahrez said. “The focus turns immediately to Burkina Faso. We need to raise our game and be more stable from the next match.”

Algeria arrive at AFCON 2025 eager to rebuild momentum after missing the last two World Cups, though they have already secured qualification for the expanded 2026 tournament.

Burkina Faso, meanwhile, come into the clash boosted by a dramatic 2-1 win over Equatorial Guinea, setting the stage for a crucial Group E showdown.