In a revealing pre-match press conference ahead of Algeria’s pivotal Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Burkina Faso, veteran defender Aïssa Mandi offered significant insights into team dynamics, leadership, and the future of African football. His comments, made alongside manager Vladimir Petković, provide a deeper look into the mindset of the Fennec Foxes as they prepare for a match that will be a true litmus test for their 2025 AFCON ambitions.
The encounter against Burkina Faso, scheduled for 4:30 PM tomorrow, represents far more than a simple second group stage match. [[PEAI_MEDIA_X]] This fixture pits Algeria against their primary rival in Group E—a “quality opponent,” as Mandi implied, that also secured a victory in its opening match. The result will offer a definitive gauge of Algeria’s true competitive level following their win over Sudan, revealing whether the Greens possess the cohesion and quality to challenge for the continental title once more.
Mandi’s most pointed remarks were reserved for his captain, Riyad Mahrez. In defending the Al-Ahli winger, Mandi moved beyond simple praise to articulate a clear philosophy of leadership within the squad. “Riyad, everyone has seen it, he is still a great player,” Mandi stated. “He is our leader, our captain, he is the one who must carry us. He takes on his responsibilities and he always has.”
This endorsement is crucial context. Mahrez, while a legendary figure for Algeria, has faced scrutiny regarding his form and influence since moving to the Saudi Pro League. Mandi’s words serve as a powerful public reaffirmation of Mahrez’s undiminished status from within the camp. The defender highlighted Mahrez’s “good start” and tremendous work ethic, suggesting the captain is actively silencing doubters and setting the standard—a vital intangible for a team looking to move past the disappointments of the last two AFCON tournaments.
Perhaps the most forward-looking segment of Mandi’s press conference addressed the structural future of the competition itself. He voiced strong support for the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) decision to shift the AFCON from a biennial to a quadrennial event starting in 2028. “Every two years is a bit repetitive,” Mandi argued, drawing a direct parallel to global standards. “Every four years, like the World Cup in Europe or South America, is rather logical.”
This perspective, from the most-capped player in Algerian history, carries significant weight. He framed the change not as a reduction, but as an elevation—aligning Africa’s premier tournament with the prestige cycle of other major championships. His mention that “they will replace it with a championship” likely refers to the proposed African Super League, indicating a player’s understanding that the calendar shift is part of a broader, strategic vision to enhance club football and overall commercial value on the continent.
Finally, Mandi, embodying his role as the squad’s elder statesman, explicitly called for a forward-focused mentality. He stressed the importance of not dwelling on the “last two failed AFCONs,” a clear directive to both his teammates and the Algerian public. This mindset is essential for a squad blending legendary 2019 champions with a new generation; they must build a new identity rather than be burdened by past glory or recent failure.
Mandi’s conference was more than routine pre-match commentary. It was a strategic communication of unity (through Mahrez), a vision for the future (through the AFCON cycle debate), and a necessary psychological reset. As Algeria faces Burkina Faso, they do so not just with tactics, but with a clearly articulated sense of purpose from one of their most influential figures. The performance tomorrow will show how well these words have been translated into action on the pitch.
Adapted from original reporting by DZfoot.