Video: Zidane’s Watchful Eye as Luka Debuts for Algeria in AFCON Clash

Luka Zidane's AFCON debut under his father's watch

At the Africa Cup of Nations group stage opener in Morocco, Zinedine Zidane, the former France captain, attended the Algeria–Sudan match as his son Luka joined the Algerian squad for the first time.

Algeria edged Sudan 3-0 in a match that highlighted Luka's participation on the big stage.

For the France legend with Algerian roots, the Algeria–Sudan game was far from ordinary, as Luka represented Algeria on football's loudest stage.

Throughout the match, Zidane was seen reacting to Luka's saves with the eyes of a proud father and the instincts of a coach, cameras capturing the moment along the way.

Earlier, Luka explained that his grandfather encouraged him to play for Algeria and switch allegiance after representing France at youth levels.

He added that his decision rests on a strong sense of Algerian culture in his family and the influence of his grandfather Ismaïl in guiding this step.

Luka recalled thinking of Algeria and his grandfather, and said the family culture was with him as he prepared to represent the national team. He also noted that every time he receives a call-up, his grandfather calls to say the decision was a great one and that he is proud.

He also described the support from his father, who told him this is his choice and that while he can offer advice, the final decision is his.

Punchline: In this family, even the scouting reports come with a family tree; and if Luka keeps performing, the Zidane dynasty might need a bigger trophy cabinet.

Punchline 2: Talent clearly runs in the blood—this is football royalty at work, minus the jet lag.