Algeria have named goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of French football icon Zinedine Zidane, in their squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which kicks off on December 21 in Morocco.
The 27-year-old Granada shot-stopper previously played for France at youth level before opting to represent Algeria internationally. He earned his senior debut for the Desert Foxes two months ago during a World Cup qualifying match against Uganda.
Speaking after that first appearance, Zidane described the call-up as a privilege, pledging to give his all to make Algerians proud.
Zidane is among three goalkeepers selected, alongside USM Alger’s Oussama Benbot and Caen’s Anthony Mandrea.
Unveiling the squad, head coach Vladimir Petkovic expressed optimism ahead of the competition, stressing his team’s determination to progress beyond the group stage and push deep into the tournament.
Algeria will begin their Group E campaign against Sudan on December 24, before taking on Burkina Faso and Equatorial Guinea. The top two teams in each group, along with the four best third-placed sides, will qualify for the round of 16.
In a related development, defending champions Senegal have also announced their squad, featuring six players from the English Premier League. Coach Pape Thiaw admitted the high expectations, stating that his goal is to field a dominant team as Senegal prepare to defend their title in Group D against Botswana, DR Congo and Benin.
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