Algeria will discover its group-stage opponents for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) during Monday’s draw in Rabat.
After two underwhelming campaigns, the Fennecs aim to reclaim their status as continental heavyweights in the tournament hosted by Morocco.
As the fourth-highest African nation in the FIFA rankings, Algeria enjoys seeded status, ensuring they avoid early encounters with powerhouses like hosts Morocco, defending champions Ivory Coast, Senegal, Egypt, and Nigeria.
However, the draw still holds potential challenges, with opponents to be selected from three separate pots.
Algeria’s ideal group
A favorable draw could see Algeria grouped with DR Congo from Pot 2, Benin from Pot 3, and Botswana from Pot 4.
DR Congo, despite their reputation, ended their qualification campaign with two losses, making them a less daunting prospect compared to stronger teams like Tunisia or Burkina Faso.
Benin, though inconsistent with two wins, two draws, and two losses in their qualifying matches, would likely be an easier matchup for the Fennecs than more threatening teams such as Equatorial Guinea.
From Pot 4, Botswana emerges as the least challenging opponent, having struggled against top-tier teams despite a surprise qualification over Cape Verde.
The Fennecs also hold fond memories of their commanding 5-0 victory over Botswana in 2021.
Algeria’s nightmare scenario
A more difficult draw could place Algeria in a group alongside Mali, Angola, and Comoros.
Mali, unbeaten under coach Tom Saintfiet, poses a formidable challenge from Pot 2 with their solid recent form.
From Pot 3, Angola, who reached the quarter-finals of the previous tournament and completed their qualification unbeaten, represents a threat Algeria would prefer to avoid.
Meanwhile, Comoros, a rising team from Pot 4 that recently defeated Tunisia, could complicate Algeria’s path to the knockout stages.
High hopes for the Fennecs
Algeria enters the 2025 tournament under Vladimir Petkovic with a mix of optimism and determination.
While the Fennecs aim to capitalize on their seeded advantage, the strength of African football ensures no opponent can be taken lightly.
The draw, scheduled for 6 p.m. local time, will set the stage for Algeria’s campaign to reclaim their continental glory.
