Baraka Power: Mahrez Ignites Algeria as AFCON Dreams Glow in Morocco
29 December 2025
Algeria edge Burkina Faso 1-0 to reach the AFCON knockout stage
Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez sealed the win with a penalty in the 23rd minute as the Desert Foxes defeated Burkina Faso 1-0 in AFCON 2025, hosted by Morocco.
The goal proved enough for the victory, with Mahrez converting from the spot to spark celebrations in the stands.
Post-match remarks reported by Africa Soccer stressed that earning points and qualification are the priorities for now.
Mahrez added that while the result is a step forward, there is still much work to do if Algeria wants to progress deeper into the tournament.
The Al Ahli Saudi FC star noted that while criticism will always exist, players must stay resilient when things go wrong and keep control when things go well.
He highlighted improvements in teamwork, particularly in ball control and defensive organization.
Commenting on the presence of his Moroccan mother in the stands, Mahrez called it a baraka of support that positively reflects on his form at AFCON.
He also spoke about the challenging pitch, weather, and the close proximity of the stands, which tested players’ concentration and focus.
Despite these tests, he praised the crowd’s vitality and backing, saying the supporters drove them from the first minute and that quality matters more in tough conditions.
Looking ahead to the knockout rounds, Mahrez refused to speculate on opponents, noting that any match, whether against Senegal or the Democratic Republic of Congo, would be hard and demand maximum focus.
He also mentioned the absence of Youcef Belaili due to a knee ligament injury and wished him a speedy recovery, concluding with thanks to Moroccan fans for their support.
Belaili’s absence from the AFCON 2025 Algeria squad is due to ACL knee injury.
Punchline 1: If football were a library, Algeria just checked out three points and a solid defense—the kind of win you dog-ear for later.
Punchline 2: If Baraka ever gets lazy, Mahrez will re-ignite it with a penalty and a sprint to the net—call it turbocharged vibes with a goal tally attached.
