Nathan Aké impressed by Algeria's level

Algeria: Nathan Aké’s praise after Rotterdam

Africa Today at 11:00

Algeria’s victory over the Netherlands continues to spark reactions. This time, it’s a key figure from the Dutch squad who has publicly acknowledged the level displayed by Vladimir Petkovic’s men.

The Greens’ win against the Netherlands (1-0) is still making waves. Now, it’s Nathan Aké himself who has recognized Algeria’s rise to prominence. Approached by an Algerian fan while signing a Fennecs jersey, the Manchester City defender didn’t hesitate for a second.

“Algeria is a very good team, with a very high level,” he stated in a brief but heartfelt comment that quickly went viral.

The player’s closeness with several of the Algerian squad members is no coincidence. Aké shares the City dressing room with Rayan Aït-Nouri and previously played alongside Riyad Mahrez, the Fennecs’ captain, during their time together at City.

Nathan Aké :

« Algeria is very good team. Top ! I know well Mahrez and Ait Nouri »

[@ich_djerbah - Tiktok 🎥] pic.twitter.com/YViYLtdRJl
— La Vague Verte ⭐️🇩🇿⭐️ (@la_vagueverte) June 9, 2026

These words of praise come with a special context: they are from an opponent defeated on his own turf. As such, they sound less like mere courtesy and more like a genuine admission of respect for a national team the world has started to take very seriously.