Amine Gouiri reacted with measured optimism after Algeria’s journey at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations ended in the quarter-finals against Nigeria, despite watching the tournament from afar due to injury.
The Olympique de Marseille forward missed the continental competition after sustaining a shoulder injury during the Algeria–Uganda match in November, an incident that later required surgery.
From France, where he continued his recovery, Gouiri followed every step of the Fennecs’ campaign as they pushed deep into the tournament before Nigeria halted their progress.
Algeria entered the AFCON with high expectations, and Gouiri’s absence stood out. His technical quality and ability to control possession often give the team balance in demanding matches.
Observers noted that his profile could have helped Algeria, particularly in games that required patience and composure on the ball, including the decisive clash against the Super Eagles.
Speaking ahead of a French Cup fixture with Marseille, Gouiri addressed Algeria’s elimination with honesty.
He admitted that the defeat proved painful for the players and supporters alike, while also acknowledging the strength of the opposition.
Nigeria, he said, showed why they remain one of Africa’s most formidable teams on the biggest stage.
Despite the disappointment, the 24-year-old striker focused on the positives. He highlighted the quality and depth within the current Algerian squad and stressed his belief in the group’s long-term potential.
According to Gouiri, the performances at AFCON revealed a promising generation capable of growing together and targeting future success.
He linked that confidence directly to Algeria’s ambitions on the global stage.
Gouiri insisted that the experience gained during the tournament would serve the team well as preparations continue for the World Cup. In his view, the setbacks of AFCON form part of a broader learning process rather than a definitive failure.
National team coach Vladimir Petkovic continues to view Gouiri as an important figure in Algeria’s plans. Once fully fit, the forward expects to rejoin the squad and contribute both goals and creativity.
For now, he has turned his attention to club football, where Marseille compete across several competitions in France and Europe.
Gouiri aims to regain rhythm and sharpen his finishing as Marseille prepare for a demanding schedule.
His immediate focus lies on the French Cup, with OM set to face Bayeux FC in the round of 32, a match that offers him another platform to rebuild momentum.
For Gouiri, Algeria’s AFCON exit hurt, but his message remained clear: the future still holds promise.
