Ilan Kebbal believes Algeria must go all the way in the AFCON

Ilan Kebbal has shared a calm but confident view of Algeria’s ambitions as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations approaches.

The Paris FC midfielder, who is hoping to play in his first AFCON at 27, understands the weight of expectations but remains composed.

Speaking about the release of players still tied to their clubs, Kebbal stressed the need for balance.

“With Algeria, we’re supposed to be the last match of the first round, we start on December 24th. So that gives us a little more time. But of course we understand both sides. […] It’s a complicated debate. Ideally, it would be good if the AFCON tournaments took place in the summer like other competitions.”

His excitement for the tournament is clear.

“Yes, a lot of excitement and I hope to participate. It’s a great competition that awaits us and we hope to go as far as possible. When you are a nation like Algeria, you have to play to win every competition.”

On Morocco hosting the event, he remained focused.

“The objective is the same anywhere… Everything is top-notch. […] Of course, it might be different for our fans, but for us… we have to fight to go all the way no matter what.”

Kebbal is also unfazed by potential hostility.

“I don’t think so… And even if it’s hostile, we’ll ignore that.”

He was clear about Algeria’s goals.

“When you are Algeria, you have to go all the way, it would be a lie to say otherwise.”

Even past early exits do not shake him.

“It weighs on us… but we have to put the past behind us. […] We’re among those who can go all the way.”

He expects tough challenges in Group E.

“From the outside… we will be the favorites. But on the field… We expect a difficult match.”

And on Sudan: “I’m not looking at Sudan specifically… It will be very difficult.”

Looking ahead, Kebbal also has the World Cup in mind.

“There’s the Africa Cup of Nations, but of course it’s a goal… it would be a lie to say otherwise.”