AFCON 2025: Riyad Mahrez named MoTM after Algeria's 3-0 thumping of Sudan

Veteran forward Riyad Mahrez has been named Man of the Match (MoTM) after scoring a stunning brace on Wednesday to inspire Algeria to defeat Sudan 3-0 in their opening match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The former Manchester City superstar started the Group E contest staged at Stade Prince Moulay Hassan and put up a superb performance in the 78 minutes he lasted on the pitch.

In the exciting clash, Algeria made an early breakthrough just two minutes into the game when Mahrez latched onto a pass inside the penalty area and calmly fired a low shot into the bottom left corner.

Sudan’s situation worsened in the 39th minute after Salaheldin Alhassan was shown a second yellow card, reducing his side to ten men.

Algeria capitalised on the numerical advantage and thought they had doubled their lead three minutes later through Ramy Bensebaini, but the effort was chalked off for offside.

Mahrez eventually added his second in the 61st minute, producing a moment of brilliance as he received a good pass and smashed the ball into the centre of the net.

Algeria sealed the win late on in the 85th minute when substitute Ibrahim Maza got on the end of a cross and directed a shot towards goal. The ball deflected off the Sudan goalkeeper and went into the back of the net.

At the end of the match, Mahrez was named Man of the Match for his outstanding performance.

With the convincing win against Sudan, Algeria top Group E after the first round of games.