The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations could mark a symbolic turning point for Luca Zidane. The 27-year-old goalkeeper, younger son of French legend Zinedine Zidane, is expected to make his debut in goal for Algeria this Wednesday in Rabat against Sudan, for the Fennecs' opening match in the competition.

Having only joined the Algerian national team at the beginning of October, Luca Zidane quickly rose through the ranks. He was called up for the first time for the last two World Cup 2026 qualifying matches against Somalia and Uganda. Just two months later, he could already be a regular starter in the highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations.

When asked about the choice of number one goalkeeper against Sudan, coach Vladimir Petković remained deliberately evasive. "I don't know yet. We still have a training session to do. Announcing this kind of decision to the press before communicating it to the players isn't right," he replied, eliciting a few smiles from the room.

The momentum seems to be in favor of the goalkeeper who plays for Granada in the Spanish second division. Initially competing with Alexis Guendouz, the starting goalkeeper since 2023, Luca Zidane has seen his stock rise after the recent withdrawal of the MC Alger goalkeeper.

The fight now continues with Anthony Mandréa, a member of Caen, in the French National league, and Oussama Benbot, an experienced goalkeeper from USM Alger, with two caps.

Aware of the media attention surrounding his name, the Algerian staff are nevertheless trying to protect the player so that he can approach this AFCON with serenity. "Luca is like all the other players. He has integrated well and doesn't let it go to his head. He works for the team and doesn't pay attention to the noise around him," assured captain Riyad Mahrez.

The Fennecs star, however, didn't shy away from the reality: "It's true that his name is a heavy burden to bear." The son of one of the greatest midfielders in football history, Luca Zidane chose a different path, that of goalkeeper. A courageous choice, which exposes him to greater comparisons and expectations.

Luca Zidane will be under particular scrutiny for his first Africa Cup of Nations. Between his prestigious family legacy and personal ambition, the Algerian goalkeeper knows he's playing for much more than just a match against Sudan.