Algeria: "A second World Cup is still a childhood dream," Aissa Mandi opens up

Africa Today at 07:15

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI

News Editor

Twelve years after Brazil, Aïssa Mandi is preparing for his second World Cup. The LOSC defender looks back on a journey filled with sacrifice, pain, and undiminished pride.

Some players only get better with time. Aïssa Mandi, Algeria's all-time appearance leader with over 109 caps, is set to play in his second World Cup, twelve years after his first in Brazil. Just days before the kickoff of the 2026 World Cup, the LOSC defender opened up about what this tournament means to him.

"It's undoubtedly the greatest competition. Representing your country on the international stage is something extraordinary. I was lucky enough to play in one, and taking part in a second World Cup is still a childhood dream," he said.

See also: Algeria – What Petkovic liked most against the Netherlands

Pain as a driving force

Between 2014 and today, the Greens have been through turbulent times, including a heartbreaking elimination against Cameroon in the 2022 World Cup playoffs. Mandi does not shy away from that memory.

"We've gone through tough times since 2014. It took a lot of hard work and perseverance to get back to the World Cup. We never gave up, and that's part of this team's and this nation's identity," he stated.

With all his experience, the vice-captain is determined to play a role beyond just the pitch.

"We need to make them understand what it means to wear this jersey. You have to give 100% for the country and for the people. It's a responsibility we carry as veterans," he explained.

Now it's all eyes on North America, with one goal in mind: "to show a team that fights until the end, never gives up, and makes the whole country proud."

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