For the third time, history appears to be leaning Algeria’s way in the race for the Africa Cup of Nations crown, with past patterns offering a clear boost to the North African side’s chances.
Algeria have already lifted the AFCON trophy twice, and in both cases their title run came after a similar sequence: an early disappointment, then a strong return to the top of the continent.
The first example dates back to 1990, when Algeria won the tournament on home soil. That success came after a frustrating exit in the previous edition, with the team responding by rebuilding and delivering when it mattered most.
The same story repeated itself almost three decades later. Algeria suffered a major setback at AFCON 2017, when they were knocked out in the group stage. But they returned in style in AFCON 2019, going all the way to claim the title and confirm their ability to bounce back.
That “third time” narrative is now back in focus, as Algeria once again look to follow the same path: learn from a recent stumble, then come back stronger and push for the top prize.
What has been revealed is that Algeria’s two previous AFCON titles both came immediately after a disappointing tournament, a trend that continues to fuel belief that history could repeat itself in their next challenge for the trophy.
With that record in mind, Algeria will be viewed by many as one of the most convincing candidates to go deep again, especially given how often they have turned setbacks into a winning momentum on Africa’s biggest stage.
