With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) approaching, Algerian international Anis Hadj Moussa has revealed the team he dreads facing the most in the tournament.
The 23-year-old winger, who has earned three caps for Algeria, has been in fine form this season, registering seven goals and two assists in 29 appearances, including 17 starts.
His standout performances, including a strong display against AC Milan in the Champions League last-16 second leg (1-1), have bolstered his case for inclusion in Vladimir Petković’s squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in March.
🇩🇿🇫🇷Binationaux : #HadjMoussa considère le choix de la sélection évident “c’est ton cœur”❤️
🎤Interview intégrale ici https://t.co/oTnYbSPwOe#France #Algerie pic.twitter.com/uDnRmT30pl
— SAM FOOTX ⚽️ (@samfootx) February 19, 2025
In an interview with Sam FootX, Hadj Moussa discussed various topics concerning the Algerian national team, from his integration into the squad in March 2024 to his dream opponent at the World Cup—France, should Algeria qualify.
However, when asked about which African team he would prefer to avoid at AFCON 2025, his answer was clear.
Senegal, the biggest threat
The team I fear the most is Senegal,” Hadj Moussa admitted. “In addition, I have a lot of Senegalese friends.”
The reigning 2021 African champions (crowned in February 2022), Senegal have established themselves as one of the continent’s strongest sides in recent years.
With a squad boasting elite talents in Europe’s top leagues, including the likes of Sadio Mané, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Édouard Mendy, the Teranga Lions remain one of the heavyweights of African football.
Senegal’s physicality, tactical discipline, and individual brilliance make them formidable opponents, and their recent successes in major tournaments have solidified their reputation.
Algeria, on the other hand, will be eager to bounce back from their disappointing group-stage exit at AFCON 2023 and reclaim their place among Africa’s elite.
Eyes on World Cup qualification
Before shifting focus entirely to AFCON 2025, Hadj Moussa will be aiming to secure his place in Algeria’s squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
With his consistent performances at club level, the young winger has positioned himself as a strong contender for a role in Petković’s plans.
Algeria will be looking to build momentum ahead of AFCON 2025, where they hope to erase the disappointment of their last campaign and challenge for the title.
However, should they come up against Senegal, they will be well aware of the challenge that awaits.
