Algeria announce squad ahead of AFCON qualifiers; Riyad Mahrez included

Riyad Mahrez included in squad to face Equatorial Guinea and Liberia.

The Algeria squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Equatorial Guinea and Liberia has been revealed. Former skipper Riyad Mahrez was included in Vladimir Petkovic’s 26-man roster. Mahrez who was taking a small break from the national team is now back.

The winger for Al Ahli Saudi in Saudi Arabia, formerly of Manchester City, hasn’t competed for Algeria since March due to the team’s poor outing in the last AFCON.

Despite Algeria’s coach inviting Mahrez to return during the World Cup qualifiers earlier this year Mahrez decided to take a break. He has now been called up to participate in the AFCON qualifiers.

Since his break, he has not played two World Cup qualifying matches, against Guinea and Uganda, as well as friendlies with Bolivia and South Africa in March.

Even without their star player, the national team’s performance has been decent. Algeria have only lost to Guinea in June, winning the other two and drawing once.

But now he has been called. Mahrez will look to add that impactful touch in the attacking line and lead his team during the AFCON qualifiers. He is still one of the best players in his nation. His addition brings a sigh of relief for fans who will finally get to watch the star player.

With the support of their returning captain, Petkovic’s men would aim to continue their current form into the AFCON qualifiers. Ten defenders, four midfielders, nine forwards and three goalkeepers make up the side.

Algeria squad for AFCON qualifiers.

Goalkeepers: Mandrea (Caen), Guendouz (Persepolis), Oukidja (Metz)

Defenders: Ait-Nouri (Wolves), Khacef (Belouizad), Hadjam (Young Boys), Madani (Kabylie), Tougai (Esperance Tunis), Benseba (Dortmund), Belaid (Saint-Trond), Mandi (Lille), Atal, Farsi (Columbus Crew)

Midfielders: Bennacer (AC Milan), Zerrouki (Feyenoord), Boudaouji (Nice), Zorgane (Charleroi)

Forwards: Aouar (Al Ittihad), Sayoud (Al Raed), Amoura (Wolfsburg), Benrahma (Lyon), Riyad Maharez (Al Ahli), Hadj Moussa (Feyenoord), Benzia (Qarabag), Gouiri (Rennes), Bounedjah (Al Shamal)

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