The Algerian national football team delivered a convincing performance, defeating Saudi Arabia 2-0 in a friendly match held on Tuesday in Djeddah. The win underscores Algeria’s growing momentum ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and further strengthens the team’s international standing.
Both goals came in the second half, demonstrating Algeria’s tactical discipline and effectiveness in front of goal. Riyad Mahrez opened the scoring with a penalty in the 75th minute, before Rayan Belghali sealed the victory with a precise strike in the 85th minute.
The Algerians dominated possession and controlled the game’s tempo, particularly in the second half, capitalizing on lapses in the Saudi defense. Despite their best efforts, Saudi players—including Firas Al-Buraikan and Salem Al-Dawsari—struggled to break through Algeria’s well-organized defensive line, anchored by Ismaël Bennacer and Mohamed Zerrouki.
This victory follows Algeria’s previous win in Djeddah, where the Verts defeated Zimbabwe 3-1 on Thursday. These consecutive triumphs on Saudi soil reflect a team in strong form and provide valuable confidence as they prepare for the final stages of AFCON 2025 preparations.
For Algeria’s coach Vladimir Petkovi?, the performance is particularly reassuring. The team showcased collective organization, high intensity, and clinical finishing, highlighting their readiness for competitive challenges. The defensive solidity combined with smart counter-attacks demonstrates a squad balanced in both attack and defense.
For Saudi Arabia, under coach Hervé Renard, the result underscores the need for adjustments ahead of upcoming international fixtures, including preparations for the World Cup. The home team displayed flashes of individual brilliance, but lacked cohesion in the midfield and struggled to penetrate Algeria’s structured defensive setup.
With these two friendly victories, Algeria positions itself favorably in the FIFA world rankings and sends a clear message about its ambitions on the continental and global stage. The team’s combination of experienced stars and emerging talent bodes well for the upcoming AFCON, where they will aim to translate this form into competitive success.
The Verts’ disciplined approach, coupled with their ability to capitalize on key moments, makes them a formidable contender in the lead-up to AFCON 2025. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia faces the challenge of regrouping and fine-tuning their squad to meet the demands of the international stage.
