Maza: No Regrets Choosing Algeria, Facing Messi Was a Dream Come True

Algerian international Ibrahim Maaza spoke about his outstanding year after moving from Hertha Berlin to Bayer Leverkusen, where he experienced a new challenge in the Bundesliga and the Champions League. He also played a key role as a starter for the Algerian national team in the 2026 World Cup.

Maza spoke to German newspaper Bild: "It has been a crazy year full of events, I've experienced almost everything. I got a lot of playing time, and it was a great year for my development."

He added: "The World Cup is the biggest tournament in the world. To be able to participate in it, and to play four matches, is unbelievable. It’s an experience you can never forget."

Speaking about facing Argentina in Algeria's World Cup opener, where he faced the legend Lionel Messi, Mazaa said: "It was crazy, because I have always dreamed of playing one day against Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. I got this opportunity with one of them, and it was a great honor to experience that as a young player. But during the match, that didn't stop me from giving my all, and I played my way and almost created a goal in the first minutes."

Regarding his decision to represent Algeria instead of Germany, the Bayer Leverkusen player stated: "I have never regretted my decision. I am happy to play for Algeria; it is an honor for me. I love this country." Despite this, he emphasized his special feelings for Germany, where he grew up, and predicted that it would regain its place among the top national teams in the world.