Algeria Considers Skipping 2025 Africa Cup to Focus on World Cup Qualifiers

Citing the proximity of the periods of the 2025 CAN in Morocco and the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, Algeria would consider boycotting the continental tournament and focusing on its qualification for the World Cup.

The news is variously appreciated in Morocco and Algeria. While some believe that the FAF is right to focus on the 2026 World Cup, others see this decision as an insult to Arab supporters. The official decision of the FAF is awaited on this matter.

In addition, the governing body of Algerian football would be exerting strong pressure on Algerian players playing in the Moroccan championship to return to their country or join other championships, according to sources.

Players like Gaya Merbah, goalkeeper of Ittihad Tanger, Ilyes Chetti and Zakaria Draoui of Wydad Athletic Club, or Riyad Benayad, are said to have decided to leave Morocco.