Algeria’s 3-Goal Blitz: AFCON 2025 Sparks a Golden Comeback for the Desert Foxes
31 December 2025
Match snapshot
Algeria revived its remarkable African Cup memories by overpowering Equatorial Guinea in the AFCON 2025 group stage on Wednesday. The Desert Foxes closed the first half with a three-goal lead, courtesy of Zinedine Belaid at 19, Fares Chaibi at 25, and Ibrahim Mazza at 32.
What the stats say
Stats Foot notes that Algeria's three-goal cushion at halftime marks the third time this has happened in AFCON competition. The network recalls that Algeria opened with a first-half three-goal lead against Malawi on March 5, 1984, and again versus Tanzania on July 1, 1989.
It also points to Algeria's offensive display, having netted seven goals in the AFCON 2025 group stage in Morocco—the best group-stage tally since 1990 (10).
Looking ahead
With seven group-stage goals overall, Algeria's offense is firing on all cylinders. The performance suggests a potential deep run, as the team aims to balance flair with consistency in a tournament known for volatility.
Two light punchlines to close: "If football were a bank, Algeria just cashed in a three-goal check." "The defense? They’re auditioning for 'holey moly'—time to patch the nets."