As Algeria prepares for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, all eyes are on forward Mohamed Amoura and the team’s quest to restore its continental stature [[1]]. Following a disappointing defense of their 2019 title-which saw them exit in the group stage in both 2021 and 2023-the “Fennec Foxes” have appointed Vladimir Petković as manager, hoping to spark a turnaround [[2]]. Amoura, currently starring for VfL Wolfsburg, is central to those ambitions, having emerged as a key goal-scorer and a vital piece of Petković’s revamped squad.
Mohamed Amoura is poised to be a key figure for Algeria as they aim to reclaim their continental dominance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, following two disappointing campaigns. The tournament represents a crucial opportunity for Algeria to restore its standing among Africa’s elite soccer nations.
“The Fennec Foxes” previously lifted the continental trophy for the second time in their history in 2019, defeating Senegal 1-0 in the final held in Egypt.
However, their subsequent two appearances proved disastrous, failing to secure a single victory in six matches and suffering ignominious exits in the group stage both times. This led to the dismissal of coach Djamel Belmadi, the architect of their 2019 triumph.
Vladimir Petković has stepped in as the new manager, bringing with him a track record of leading Switzerland to two European Championships and one World Cup during a seven-year tenure.
The 62-year-old Bosnian-born coach has implemented significant changes since taking charge of Algeria last year, notably giving Amoura increased playing time.
That faith has been rewarded, as the 25-year-old, currently playing for German side VfL Wolfsburg, has emerged as the top scorer in the African qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup with 10 goals.
Amoura tormented opponents throughout Algeria’s qualification run, securing their fifth appearance in the global finals. He notched a hat-trick against Mozambique, and bagged braces against Botswana, Somalia, and Uganda.
He continued his scoring form with a goal in a pre-tournament friendly against Zimbabwe, as Algeria prepares to face Sudan, Burkina Faso, and Equatorial Guinea in Group E. The group is widely expected to see Algeria emerge as the frontrunners, with Petković acknowledging “The Desert Warriors” are the strongest of the four teams. He stated after announcing his squad: “The main objective is to get past the first round, then go as far as possible in the tournament.”
“A Great Honor”
Amoura expressed optimism to Algerian media about Algeria’s chances of topping Group E and reaching the knockout stages.
“It’s a strong group. We respect every team, but we fear none. Algeria has a balanced squad with excellent players,” he said.
“Our goal is to go far in the tournament and represent our country in the best possible way. We want to make our fans happy and fight for the title,” Amoura continued.
“There’s no secret behind my 10 goals in World Cup qualifying. My achievements are down to hard work and the confidence placed in me by my teammates and coaches.”
“It’s a great honor to wear the jersey of the Algerian national team. I want to help it as much as possible, whether by scoring or creating goals, or even going back to defend,” he added.
Amoura praised Petković for fostering a positive atmosphere during training camps that promotes success for a nation that previously won the Africa Cup of Nations in 1990.
“The atmosphere is excellent, there is seriousness, focus, and a desire to give our best. It has to be that way because the 2025 edition includes strong teams,” he stated.
Amoura departed Wolfsburg after scoring in their 3-1 Bundesliga victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach, another team in the lower half of the table.
He and young Ivorian Leipzig striker Youssoufou Diomandé currently lead all African goalscorers in the Bundesliga this season, with six goals apiece.
Amoura began his professional career just five years ago with ES Sétif, quickly attracting attention that led to moves to Lugano in Switzerland and Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium before joining Wolfsburg last year.
He initially joined Union on loan, but the German club, recognizing the Algerian player’s potential, converted the deal into a permanent transfer this year.
AFP
