Captain Riyad Mahrez led from the front as Algeria opened their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over 10-man Sudan. The Al-Ahli star was the architect of the win at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, scoring twice and providing a creative spark that earned him the official Man of the Match (MVP) award.

Mahrez gave the "Desert Foxes" a dream start, curling a trademark left-footed strike into the bottom corner after just 82 seconds. He struck again in the 61st minute, finishing coolly from a Mohamed Amoura through-ball to effectively end the contest. Sudan’s task was made nearly impossible when Salah Adel was sent off for a second bookable offense shortly before halftime. This dominant performance by the 34-year-old saw him become Algeria's all-time top scorer in AFCON history with eight goals, surpassing the legendary Lakhdar Belloumi.

The 3-0 rout was completed late in the game by Bayer Leverkusen youngster Ibrahim Maza, marking Algeria's 100th goal in the history of the tournament. Following a disappointing early exit in the previous edition, Algeria’s emphatic win puts them at the top of Group E alongside Burkina Faso. Mahrez was withdrawn to a standing ovation late in the game, signaling a revival for the 2019 champions as they look to secure their third continental title on Moroccan soil.