Expected to make his debut with Algeria against Sudan, Luca Zidane must already manage the pressure and expectations surrounding his name.
D-1. Algeria is preparing to launch its African Cup of Nations this Wednesday, December 24 against Sudan. Looking for a new start after not having won a single CAN match since their coronation in July 2019, the Fennecs want to strike hard from the start. This meeting could also mark the first official appearance of Luca Zidane in the Algerian jersey.
A major question remains: who will guard the cages? Will Zinedine Zidane’s son start or will Vladimir Petkovic opt for Oussama Benbot (USM Algiers) or Anthony Mandrea (SM Caen)? At a press conference, the Algerian coach carefully maintained the suspense.
“I don’t know because we still have one day and one practice to do. It wouldn’t be right to tell you (the answer) before telling the players.”he explained. Aged 27 and playing for Granada, in the Spanish second division, Luca Zidane played his first match with Algeria last October in the victory against Uganda, synonymous with qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
A “heavy to bear” name
Also present in front of the media, Riyad Mahrez welcomed the rapid integration of the newcomer. “Luca, he’s like everyone else. We integrated it well. He’s a new guy, he’s not going to bother. He tries to give his all for the team”assured the Algerian winger. Before adding:
“His name is heavy to bear but he doesn’t take it easy. »
Verdict this Wednesday. Luca Zidane is expected to start against Sudan in the first match of Group E. Algeria will then continue against Burkina Faso on December 28, then Equatorial Guinea on December 31 (5 p.m.), still at the Moulay Hassan stadium.
