AFCON 2025: Mahrez Double Drives Algeria to 3–0 Win Over Sudan

By Francis Onyach - Reporter

Kenya, 24 December 2025 - Algeria began their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 campaign in commanding fashion, cruising to a 3–0 win over Sudan in their Group E opener at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat on Wednesday evening.

The victory provided a statement performance from the Desert Foxes as they aim to make a deep run in the tournament, and maybe even win it.

Algeria wasted no time asserting itself, with captain Riyad Mahrez striking early to set the tone. The former Manchester City winger collected the ball inside the box and curled a precise effort past the Sudanese goalkeeper in the 2nd minute, giving Algeria the lead and igniting the home crowd.

Algeria maintained control throughout the first half and extended its advantage shortly after the break. Mahrez doubled his tally and Algeria’s lead in the 61st minute, this time finishing from close range after a clever build-up that exposed the visiting defence. The brace underlined Mahrez’s influence and marked an impressive attacking start to his nation’s campaign.

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The goals did not stop there, as Algeria added a third goal to seal the comprehensive victory. Ibrahim Maza found the net in the later stages, tapping home from inside the box to make it 3–0 and cement Algeria’s dominance in Group E. Sudan had many attempts, but did not manage to get any consolation goal.

The win puts Algeria in a strong early position in the group, bolstering their confidence as they prepare for their next fixtures. It also offered a timely response to recent disappointment in continental competition, as Algeria had been looking to improve on their performances at past AFCON tournaments.

The defeat was a tough start for Sudan in their AFCON campaign. Despite moments of effort, they were unable to contain Algeria’s potent attack or breach the hosts’ organised defence. Sudan will now look to regroup and respond positively when they meet their next group opponents, hoping to stay longer in the competition.