Algeria winger Ilan Kebbal eyes more playing time ahead of AFCON 2025  

Algeria winger Ilan Kebbal says he will strive to get more playing time under coach Vladimir Petkovic at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The 27-year-old has struggled to command a starting role despite being on top form at French Ligue 1 outfit, Paris FC. In the last three appearances, Kebbal has racked up just 25 minutes.

Kebbal made substitute appearances in their game against Saudi Arabia, as the former African champions cruised to a 2-0 win last Tuesday. Despite his strong performances in Ligue 1, Kebbal seems to be currently out of favor with the coach.

It appears Vladimir Petkovic prefers to put his faith in Anis Hadj Moussa, who played a key role in the match against the Saudis.

However, Kebbal has expressed his desire for more playing time with the national team, particularly with the AFCON fast approaching.

“I want to play and get more time on the pitch. My goal is first and foremost to perform well at club level to earn my place in the national team,” he stated.

At 27, Ilan Kebbal stands out as one of the most effective players in Ligue 1. The Paris FC winger, with 5 goals and 4 assists in 13 matches, impresses with his speed and dribbling skills.

The North African giants are gearing up for the impending 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament to be staged in Morocco between December 2025 and January 2026.

Algeria are paired in Group E against Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea Sudan at the continental showpiece. The former AFCON champions will open their account against Sudan on December 23.