Algeria and Sudan meet in an Africa Cup of Nations tie on Wednesday 24th December 2025 at 15:00 GMT. Find predictions, stats and betting tips for this fixture below in this comprehensive match preview.
| Match Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Competition | Africa Cup of Nations |
| Matchday | 1 |
| Date | Wednesday 24 December 2025 |
| Kick-off Time | 15:00 GMT |
| Venue | Stade Prince Moulay El Hassan |
| Broadcast | Sky Sports / BBC Sport (UK) |
| Market | Prediction | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Time Result | Algeria | ★★★★☆ |
| Correct Score | Algeria 1-0 Sudan | ★★★☆☆ |
| Both Teams to Score | No | ★★★☆☆ |
| Over/Under 2.5 Goals | Under 2.5 | ★★★★☆ |
Analysis: With both teams yet to play a competitive match in this season’s competition and no recent head-to-heads, this contest is set against a backdrop of uncertainty – but also opportunity for value. Algeria enter as the overwhelming favourites, and bookmakers have them at short odds (as low as 2/5 for the win). However, the 1-0 correct score at 9/2 with Bet365 offers an attractive alternative. Neither team has demonstrated a prolific scoring record in this context, and ‘Under 2.5 Goals’ is the market expectation. Given the lack of recent data and with both teams likely to be cautious early in the group stage, backing a tight 1-0 Algeria win makes strategic sense and offers considerable value at 9/2.
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Analysis: Riyad Mahrez remains Algeria’s most high-profile attacking talent, and in a fixture where his quality could prove the difference, backing him to find the net holds appeal. While no recent data is available for his international scoring form in this competition, Mahrez’s technical ability, set-piece threat, and experience make him a natural focal point in attack. With Sudan’s defence lacking top-tier continental experience, Mahrez is well placed to take advantage of any lapses.
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Neither Algeria nor Sudan have played a match yet in the current Africa Cup of Nations campaign, and there is no recent head-to-head history within MCP’s database. Both teams arrive at the tournament on a clean slate, which often results in a cautious approach in opening fixtures. Algeria, historically a heavyweight in African football, will expect to dominate possession and dictate the tempo, while Sudan will likely be content to sit deep and look for opportunities on the break.
Algeria, under Vladimir Petković, are expected to line up in a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation, with a focus on structured build-up play and exploiting the wings. Key playmakers such as Mahrez and Bennacer will be central to their approach, providing creativity and experience.
Sudan, led by James Kwesi Appiah, are likely to deploy a compact 4-4-2 or 4-5-1, aiming to frustrate Algeria’s forwards and rely on quick transitions. Both teams’ lack of recent competitive action adds an element of unpredictability, but Algeria’s technical superiority is likely to tell over the 90 minutes.
| Statistic | Algeria | Sudan |
|---|---|---|
| League Position | N/A | N/A |
| Goals Scored | 0 | 0 |
| Goals Conceded | 0 | 0 |
| xG (Expected Goals) | N/A | N/A |
| xGA (Expected Goals Against) | N/A | N/A |
Mahrez is Algeria’s captain and most technically gifted player. Renowned for his left-footed finesse, close control and set-piece prowess, Mahrez is the primary attacking outlet for his country. His experience in major tournaments and ability to produce moments of magic under pressure make him indispensable for Algeria. In the absence of recent competitive international data, Mahrez’s club form and leadership credentials stand out – expect him to be heavily involved in Algeria’s attacking play and most likely to unlock Sudan’s defence.
Algeria are rightful favourites against Sudan in this group stage opener, but value-seeking punters should be wary of short odds on the home side. The 1-0 correct score stands out as a sensible alternative, reflecting the likely cautious approach from both sides. Riyad Mahrez, as captain and creative fulcrum, is the player most likely to make a decisive impact. With little historical data available, proceed with measured staking and monitor team news ahead of kick-off for any late developments.
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