Rabat, Morocco – Captain Riyad Mahrez scored a goal in each half as Algeria cruised to a 3-0 victory over 10-man Sudan in their opening match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The 2019 champions made an emphatic start to Group E in front of 16,115 spectators at Moulay El Hassan Stadium.

Mahrez Stars Early

Mahrez wasted no time making an impact, scoring the opener after just 82 seconds. Mohamed Amoura delivered a cross across the penalty box, which Hicham Boudaoui back-heeled to set up Mahrez for a clinical finish. The early strike energized the Algerian supporters, who formed the majority of the crowd.

The former Manchester City winger, now playing for Al-Ahli of Saudi Arabia, doubled Algeria’s advantage in the 61st minute, converting a precise outside-of-the-boot assist from Amoura. Ibrahim Maza sealed the victory late, scoring Algeria’s 100th AFCON goal after connecting with Baghdad Bounedjah’s knockdown.

“Mahrez’s leadership and finishing were on full display,” said an AFCON analyst.
“He continues to prove why he is one of Africa’s premier forwards.”

Match Dynamics

Sudan’s hopes were dented when Salaheldin Adil was sent off in the 39th minute for a second yellow card, reducing the team to ten men. Algeria dominated possession, creating multiple opportunities, including a disallowed goal by Ramy Bensebaini for offside.

The victory marks a strong turnaround for Algeria, who exited in the first round without a win in each of the last two AFCON tournaments. Mahrez, now appearing in his sixth AFCON, brought his tournament tally to eight goals after a performance that earned him a standing ovation when substituted late in the match.

Special Guests and Fan Excitement

Among the spectators was France football legend Zinedine Zidane, whose parents hail from Algeria. His son, Luca Zidane, started in goal for the Desert Foxes. Zidane’s appearance on stadium big screens drew loud cheers from Algerian fans, highlighting the connection between Algeria’s football heritage and its diaspora.

Burkina Faso’s Late Drama Against Equatorial Guinea

Earlier in Group E action, Burkina Faso overcame a resilient 10-man Equatorial Guinea side with a dramatic 2-1 comeback. Despite an early sending-off for Equatorial Guinea and a late goal by substitute Marvin Anieboh in the 85th minute, Burkina Faso staged a remarkable recovery.

Georgi Minoungou equalized in the fifth minute of stoppage time, and defender Edmond Tapsoba of Bayer Leverkusen scored the decisive goal after a chaotic final attack. The victory demonstrated Burkina Faso’s persistence and strategic play, even against a smaller opponent adept at slowing the game and creating surprise scoring chances.

Looking Ahead in Group E

With this win, Algeria positions itself strongly in Group E, while Sudan faces an uphill battle to recover from a heavy opening defeat. Burkina Faso’s comeback highlights the competitive nature of the group and the potential for thrilling encounters in the remaining matches.

Algeria’s blend of experienced talent, led by Mahrez, and strategic teamwork provides a template for success as the Desert Foxes aim to reclaim AFCON glory.