Ibrahim Maza continues to command attention at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations as his performances for Algeria grow in authority and influence with every match.
The young Algerian midfielder confirmed his rising status on Wednesday evening during the group-stage encounter against Equatorial Guinea.
Trusted with a second consecutive start by head coach Vladimir Petkovic, the Bayer Leverkusen player delivered a decisive display that shaped the outcome of the game.
He provided an assist, scored a goal, and once again showed maturity well beyond his age.
Maza dictated play with composure, combined sharply in tight areas, and timed his forward runs with intelligence.
His technical accuracy and calm decision-making allowed Algeria to control key phases of the match, reinforcing his importance in the Fennecs’ midfield structure.
Observers noted not only his attacking contribution but also his discipline and consistency throughout the contest.
Watching closely, former France international Samir Nasri did not hide his admiration.
The ex-Arsenal and Manchester City midfielder shared his assessment on social media, offering a short but powerful endorsement of the Algerian talent.
“Maza is serious, a truly top player,” Nasri wrote, a statement that carried weight given his experience at the highest level of European football.
This public recognition underlined what many analysts already believe. Maza now stands as one of the tournament’s most impressive young midfielders.
His AFCON journey has followed a steady upward curve.
He came off the bench to score against Sudan, earned man-of-the-match honours versus Burkina Faso, and then delivered a complete performance against Equatorial Guinea.
Petkovic’s confidence in the 20-year-old continues to grow. Maza now operates as a regular starter, trusted to balance creativity with responsibility.
His ability to link midfield and attack has added fluency to Algeria’s play, while his work rate helps maintain structure without the ball.
At such a young age, Maza already shows leadership through his performances rather than words.
He avoids unnecessary flair, chooses efficiency, and remains focused on collective success. That attitude resonates strongly within the squad and among supporters.
As the knockout stages approach, Algeria benefit from a player who appears fearless, composed, and hungry to make a lasting mark.
If Ibrahim Maza maintains this level, his impact at AFCON 2025 could define not only Algeria’s campaign but also his own emergence on the continental stage.
Maza c’est du serieux vraiment top player
— Samir Nasri Official (@SamNasri19) December 31, 2025
