Algeria exited the Africa Cup of Nations with fresh concerns in goal after their high-profile decision to hand Luca Zidane a key role collapsed during a 2–0 quarter-final defeat to Nigeria in Marrakech.
The Algerian coaching staff turned to Zidane, son of World Cup winner Zinedine Zidane, in an attempt to resolve a long-standing shortage of reliable goalkeepers.
The move attracted attention across the tournament, but events on Saturday exposed the risks behind that choice and left Algeria searching for solutions ahead of the World Cup later this year.
Zidane endured a difficult evening as Nigeria increased the pressure after the break. His positioning and reactions failed to inspire confidence, most notably when Victor Osimhen headed home at the back post.
Zidane misjudged the cross and jumped awkwardly rather than diving, allowing Nigeria to take control of the contest.
Ten minutes later, inaccurate distribution from the Algerian goalkeeper handed possession straight to the Super Eagles, who punished the mistake with a second goal.
Algeria’s decision to call on Zidane followed months of debate. The 27-year-old joined the squad from Spain’s second tier, where he has spent much of his career despite brief appearances for Real Madrid during his father’s tenure as coach.
His selection drew interest due to his family name and his eligibility through Algerian heritage.
Coach Vladimir Petkovic reshaped his goalkeeping hierarchy after refusing to select Anthony Mandrea, Algeria’s first-choice keeper for several years, following Mandrea’s relegation with Caen to France’s third division.
Zidane switched his international allegiance in September and initially slotted in as cover for Alexis Guendouz.
An injury to Guendouz on the eve of the tournament then pushed Zidane into the starting role.
Early signs looked encouraging. Zidane featured in two group matches without conceding and recorded another clean sheet during the last-16 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo, supported by a disciplined defence.
Nigeria, however, exposed his limitations once the intensity increased. Zidane struggled with crosses, hesitated off his line, and looked unsettled as the Super Eagles dominated the second half. Algeria never recovered.
Zidane’s parents watched from the stands in Morocco as speculation grew over his future role.
Algeria still include him in plans for the World Cup group featuring Argentina, Jordan, and Austria, but Petkovic now faces serious questions.
The tournament ended not only Algeria’s AFCON campaign but also the belief that a famous surname could solve a complex problem between the posts.
