Still frame from the broadcast of the Algeria vs. Sudan Africa Cup of Nations match on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, showing Zinedine Zidane in the stands (YouTube)
Goalkeeper Luca Zidane stole the spotlight during the match between the Algerian and Sudanese national teams on Wednesday in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, currently being held in Morocco, after making a crucial save in the first half. This standout performance came under the watchful eye of his father, the legend Zinedine Zidane, marking one of his first prominent appearances for the Algerian national team.
During the match, goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of French football legend Zinedine Zidane, drew attention with a strong performance in the encounter between the Algerian and Sudanese national teams.
Luca Zidane saves the Algerian national team
Luca Zidane’s most notable moment came in the first half when a Sudanese striker found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper following a precise through pass. The Algerian keeper intervened brilliantly, deflecting the ball and saving the “Desert Warriors'” net from what seemed a certain goal.
This intervention held special significance as it occurred under the gaze of Zinedine Zidane, who was present in the stands of the Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium in the Moroccan capital, Rabat, to watch his son’s continental debut.
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This match marks Luca Zidane’s second international appearance for the Algerian national team, following his debut last October after he officially completed the procedures to change his sporting nationality.
Luca Zidane is eligible to represent Algeria internationally due to his family roots, as his grandparents are from Algeria. This granted him the right to choose to play for the “Desert Warriors” instead of the French national team.
Algeria
Algeria is a North African country with a rich history shaped by ancient Berber kingdoms, Roman rule, and centuries as part of the Ottoman Empire before becoming a French colony in the 19th century. It gained independence in 1962 after a prolonged war of liberation, and its cultural heritage includes numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Roman ruins of Timgad and the historic Casbah of Algiers.
Sudan
Sudan, located in Northeast Africa, is home to ancient civilizations, most notably the Kingdom of Kush, which ruled from the city of Meroë and was a major rival to ancient Egypt. The modern nation gained independence from Anglo-Egyptian rule in 1956 and has since experienced significant political changes, including the secession of South Sudan in 2011. Its cultural heritage is marked by numerous archaeological sites, diverse ethnic groups, and a blend of Arab and African influences.
Africa Cup of Nations
The Africa Cup of Nations is the premier international men’s football competition in Africa, first held in 1957. It was founded to unite African nations emerging from colonialism and is organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Morocco
Morocco is a North African country with a rich history shaped by indigenous Amazigh (Berber) cultures, Arab influence from the 7th century, and successive dynasties like the Almoravids and Almohads. Its cultural sites, such as the ancient city of Fez and the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech, reflect this blend of Arab, Islamic, and Amazigh heritage. The country’s historic medinas, kasbahs, and varied landscapes from the Sahara Desert to the Atlas Mountains are central to its identity.
Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium
Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium in Rabat, Morocco, named after the late Crown Prince Moulay Hassan. It was originally constructed in 1983 and has since served as a key venue for football matches and athletic events, including being the former home of the ASFAR and FAR Rabat football clubs.
Rabat
Rabat is the capital city of Morocco, founded in the 12th century by the Almohad Caliphate as a ribat (fortified monastery). It is now a modern political and administrative center, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its blend of historic and contemporary elements, including the Hassan Tower and the well-preserved Kasbah of the Udayas.
France
France is a Western European nation with a rich history dating back to ancient Gaul, later shaped by Roman conquest, the rise of the monarchy, the French Revolution, and its development into a modern republic. It is globally renowned for its influential art, philosophy, cuisine, and landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Palace of Versailles.
