Algerian star Riyad Mahrez (34) couldn’t hide his smile during the press conference held on the eve of the Algeria vs Sudan clash, set for this Wednesday as part of the opening matchday in Group E of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

During the media session, a journalist threw an unexpected question at the Fennecs captain, asking about his family roots and which country he feels he represents on the pitch—his father’s or his mother’s homeland.

Momentarily surprised, Riyad Mahrez quickly burst into laughter, showing a relaxed reaction and a sense of humor that reflect his maturity and composure in such situations.

For the record, Mahrez has Moroccan roots on his mother’s side. However, he was born and raised in Algeria, the nation he chose to represent on the international stage.

“We were very warmly welcomed by the Moroccans. We’re happy to be in a neighboring country. Whether my father is Algerian and my mother is Moroccan makes no difference,” Mahrez said.