Rising star Amine Chiakha set to make Algeria debut in crucial AFCON qualifiers
Algerian football fans are eagerly anticipating the debut of 18-year-old forward Amine Chiakha, who has been called up to the national team for the final two matches of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifiers against Equatorial Guinea and Liberia.
Chiakha, who plays for Denmark’s FC Copenhagen, has impressed with his recent performances in Europe.
In a standout display, he scored twice to rescue his club from defeat against Istanbul Basaksehir in a Europa Conference League clash, salvaging a 2-2 draw.
Entering as a substitute in the 76th minute, Chiakha scored the equalizer just three minutes later and, after Basaksehir briefly regained the lead, struck again in the 83rd minute to secure a valuable point for Copenhagen.
This double marked his first professional goals since being promoted to the club’s senior team this summer, underlining his potential as an emerging talent.
The young striker’s career trajectory has quickly gained attention.
After showcasing his talent in Copenhagen’s youth team, the club offered him a long-term contract until 2029, a testament to their confidence in his future.
Danish media have also recognized his talents, with praise for his physical presence and goal-scoring instinct.
The night of November 8, 2024, will likely remain memorable for Chiakha—not only did he earn his first call-up to Algeria’s senior team, but he also left his mark on European competition.
Following his breakthrough performance, Chiakha shared his excitement on FC Copenhagen’s official channel, saying, “It’s not the result we were hoping for, but scoring my first two goals in this stadium is fantastic.
His enthusiasm and ambition have made him one of the most talked-about young talents, with fans and analysts alike speculating on the impact he could bring to both club and country.
Chiakha’s journey has not been without challenges.
Limited to just one start in his eight appearances this season, he has had to prove his ability from the bench.
Reflecting on his hunger for more game time, he noted, “Every time I’m on the bench, I only think about coming on and scoring.
I just hope I get the opportunity because I know I can score goals. I’ve always known how to do it.
The goals against Basaksehir, he added, were especially meaningful, saying, “I was happy with every goal scored with the youth, but nothing can compare to scoring at this level.”
Chiakha’s decision to represent Algeria over Denmark has also drawn interest.
When asked about this choice, he explained, “I have great confidence in myself.
This choice is not due to a lack of opportunity in Denmark.
I know I am capable of it, but the Algerian Football Federation has developed a good project for me.
It is a sporting decision, but also a decision of the heart.
His words reflect both a maturity and a deep-rooted connection to his heritage, blending passion with a clear, strategic outlook on his career.
As Algeria prepares for these crucial AFCON qualifiers, Chiakha’s presence has generated substantial enthusiasm.
The young forward embodies a promising future for Algerian football, and all eyes will be on him to see if he can live up to the expectations surrounding his national team debut.
