Riyad Mahrez scored a brace to lead Algeria to a comfortable 3-0 win over ten-man Sudan in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations opener.
Captain Riyad Mahrez scored twice as Algeria secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Sudan in their opening Group E match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The North African side, eager to move past consecutive group-stage exits, dominated from the outset.
Mahrez opened the scoring in the second minute with a trademark left-footed finish, setting a tone of control that lasted throughout the ninety minutes.
Sudan’s hopes of a comeback were severely dampened shortly before halftime when Salaheldin Alhassan was sent off for a second bookable offense.
Despite being a man down, the Falcons of Jediane initially resisted, but Mahrez doubled his tally in the 61st minute with a clinical strike.
Highlighting the team’s renewed focus, Mahrez stated, “Now we have the opportunity of a lifetime, the chance to make up for what has happened and do better.”
The Desert Warriors added a third goal late in the game through Ibrahim Maza, who finished from close range following a header by Baghdad Bounedjah.
The win places Vladimir Petkovic’s team at the top of their group as they look to reclaim the title they last won in 2019. Addressing the team’s legacy and future, Mahrez noted: “Tomorrow it is time for this generation.”