Algeria believe Morocco’s familiar conditions can give them a decisive edge as they pursue a third Africa Cup of Nations title, according to midfielder Fares Chaibi, who remains unconvinced about staging the tournament in winter.
The Eintracht Frankfurt player said the geographical closeness and similar climate would help the Algerian squad settle quickly when AFCON kicks off on December 21, while also making it easier for supporters to travel in large numbers.
Algeria’s previous continental triumphs both came in North Africa, winning as hosts in 1990 and again in Egypt in 2019.
Chaibi, who has earned 22 caps, acknowledged personal frustration at missing key club fixtures but underlined the squad’s motivation.
“We’re eagerly waiting for this Cup,” he told Reuters. “It will undoubtedly be a fantastic tournament. Our Moroccan brothers have excellent infrastructure and know how to organise events.”
He expressed confidence in the host nation’s preparations and the overall appeal of the competition. “We have no doubt about the quality of the stadiums. I think all teams are happy to play in Morocco, and I hope it will be a great tournament,” Chaibi added.
“Morocco has the same climate as Algeria, we won’t feel like strangers, we’ll almost be at home. We have everything to deliver a big tournament, and we’re going there to make it happen.”
Despite his enthusiasm, the 23-year-old reiterated his belief that summer remains the ideal window for AFCON.
“It was supposed to be in summer… As professional players, we’ll always be there and answer the call of the homeland, no matter the timing,” he said, while conceding the winter schedule disrupts club seasons.
Born in Lyon to Algerian parents, Chaibi said his international allegiance was never in doubt, choosing Algeria over the possibility of a France call-up.
“It was a natural choice. Algeria is my country,” he said, adding that the decision was not a slight on France but a reflection of his upbringing and identity.
Chaibi has already realised a childhood ambition by helping Algeria return to the World Cup after a 12-year absence.
The national team will make their fifth finals appearance at the expanded 48-team tournament in North America next summer, where they are grouped with Argentina, Jordan, and Austria.
