Algeria believes the environment in neighboring Morocco can work in their favor at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, according to midfielder Fares Chaibi. The Eintracht Frankfurt player said similar weather conditions should help the squad settle quickly once the competition begins on 21 December.
Algeria believes the environment in neighboring Morocco can work in their favor at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, according to midfielder Fares Chaibi. The Eintracht Frankfurt player said similar weather conditions should help the squad settle quickly once the competition begins on 21 December.
Chaibi also pointed to geography as an advantage, expecting large numbers of supporters to travel easily across the border. He suggested that strong backing in the stands could give the team an extra lift during matches.
Speaking to Reuters via Zoom, the 23-year-old underlined his enthusiasm for the tournament despite the disruption it causes to his club schedule. He described the anticipation within the squad as intense.
He praised the hosts for their preparation, highlighting Morocco’s facilities and organizational experience. Chaibi said teams were confident about the quality of the venues and believed the setting would contribute to a high-level competition.
While welcoming the chance to compete, Chaibi admitted disappointment that the finals were scheduled outside the traditional summer window. In his view, warmer months fit more naturally with the rhythm of a football season.
He explained that a summer tournament allows players to finish domestic campaigns, recover properly, and then focus fully on international duty. A mid-season interruption, by contrast, forces absences from important club fixtures.
Despite those concerns, Chaibi stressed that representing Algeria remains a priority regardless of timing. He said players must adapt to circumstances and remain committed whenever the national team calls.
The midfielder is determined to help erase memories of Algeria’s early elimination at the 2024 finals in Ivory Coast. He insisted the squad remain motivated to deliver a strong showing this time.
Born in Lyon to Algerian parents, Chaibi said choosing to represent Algeria came naturally. Unlike some contemporaries who waited for opportunities with France, he never hesitated over his international allegiance.
He described a deep connection to Algerian culture and said wearing the national colors was about honoring his family rather than rejecting the country of his birth. France, he added, remains a respected football power in his eyes.
Chaibi has already realized one childhood ambition by helping Algeria return to the World Cup after a 12-year gap. He recalled watching the team at the 2014 tournament in Brazil and dreaming of one day being part of it.
Algeria will take part in the expanded 48-team World Cup in North America next summer, their fifth appearance at the finals. Drawn in Group J alongside Argentina, Jordan, and Austria, the midfielder said reaching the global stage remains a powerful symbol, especially for players from Africa, where qualification was once far more limited.
