Algeria’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Mozambique in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers has not only solidified its position at the top of Group G but has also intensified debates in Morocco about the strength of the Fennecs ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
While the Atlas Lions continue to post positive results, concerns over their performances and head coach Walid Regragui’s tactics persist, fueling discussions about Algeria’s growing threat.
Algeria’s unstoppable form
Vladimir Petkovic’s Algeria side has been dominant in the World Cup qualifiers, boasting 15 points and the most potent attack with 16 goals scored.
Their recent thrashing of Mozambique in Tizi-Ouzou showcased their firepower, with Mohamed Amoura netting a hat-trick and Riyad Mahrez providing key assists.
Their earlier 3-1 triumph over Botswana in challenging conditions further underscored their resilience.
In contrast, Morocco—despite topping their group—has faced mounting criticism.
Their performances against Niger and Tanzania were met with frustration, as fans accustomed to the team’s 2022 World Cup heroics expect more convincing displays.
While Regragui’s record of 10 wins in 11 matches remains impressive, questions linger over his team’s style of play and tactical fluidity.
A strategic shift from Morocco?
With Algeria riding a wave of momentum, some believe Morocco could be deliberately downplaying expectations.
Historically, the Fennecs have struggled when carrying the ‘favorites’ tag, as evidenced by their premature exits from AFCON 2021 and 2023 despite boasting strong squads.
Regragui’s cautious approach may be an attempt to shift pressure onto Algeria, creating a psychological advantage for Morocco.
By allowing Algeria to assume the role of title favorites, the Atlas Lions could look to exploit their North African rivals’ history of faltering under heightened expectations.
Why Moroccan fans fear an Algerian triumph
Beyond tactical concerns, Moroccan supporters are particularly anxious about the possibility of Algeria winning the AFCON title on Moroccan soil.
Several factors appear to favor the Fennecs:
- Climate Advantage: Algeria’s struggles in the extreme heat of Cameroon (2021) and Ivory Coast (2023) hindered their performances. With the 2025 AFCON scheduled for December-January in Morocco, the cooler weather could suit their high-intensity style.
- Maghrebian Success: Algeria’s two AFCON triumphs (1990, 2019) both came on North African soil, a pattern that could repeat itself in 2025.
Regragui under scrutiny
Despite Morocco’s strong results, Regragui faces mounting pressure.
His pragmatic approach, while effective, has drawn criticism for lacking the attacking flair fans expect.
Supporters are now divided into three camps: those who stand by his record, those calling for his dismissal, and a cautious middle ground waiting for more decisive performances against top-tier opposition.
The 2025 AFCON is shaping up to be more than just a football tournament—it is a battle for regional supremacy.
With Algeria in scintillating form and Morocco grappling with high expectations, the stakes have never been higher.
Whether Morocco’s cautious narrative is a calculated strategy or a genuine concern remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the North African rivalry is set to reach a fever pitch.
