Maza: I was inspired by Algeria's 2014 World Cup

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Hertha Berlin midfielder Ibrahim Maza was named to the Algeria squad for the first time
The 18-year-old looks to make history with the Fennec Foxes
The Berlin-born youngster reflects on what he remembers about Algeria’s round of 16 encounter with Germany in 2014.

Since the season began, Ibrahim Maza has become a key player for Hertha Berlin, scoring a goal in eight 2.Bundesliga matches. The 18-year-old has also shown his worth to his team-mates with two assists.

His influence on the game goes beyond the key moments. With an average of 2.5 successful dribbles per game and an 85% pass completion rate, he has remarkable technical mastery and a finely honed vision of the game, all of which have quickly caught the eye of the Algerian national team.

Maza was born in Berlin to an Algerian father, but spent his entire youth international career with the German national team. However, having decided to accept the call-up by coach Vladimir Petkovic, he will join the Algerian squad as they face Togo in the CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifiers this October.

“He’s a talented and technically gifted player with a high footballing IQ, despite his youth,” the Algeria coach revealed at his press conference. “His early-season statistics speak volumes about his potential and ability to influence the game with deadly runs and build-up play.”

Although he has yet to fully adjust to the high standards of professional football, the Algerian is already proving mature beyond his years, and everything points to him becoming an invaluable asset to the national team in the near future.

A deep bond with Algeria

The Berliner is no stranger to Algeria. His father is from Algiers and grew up in the land of the Fennec Foxes before moving to Europe. Since he was a child, Maza has been brought up on his father’s stories about Algeria’s rich traditions and fabled hospitality. He returns with his family every summer to visit relatives, including his grandparents, who still live in the suburbs of the Algerian capital.

Regular visits to the region have helped strengthen his ties with his Algerian roots. “The weather is lovely here, everyone is friendly and the country is beautiful,” he told FIFA exclusively.

Representing Algeria on the football pitch is more than just a career choice for Maza. It represents a way of paying tribute to his father’s origins and proudly flying the flag of his ancestors.

Integration and admiration

When asked about joining the national team, Maza cannot conceal his enthusiasm and sheer delight. From the day he arrived, he has been feeling both nervous and excited, knowing just how important this moment will be for his career. He is full of admiration for his team-mates, especially Algerian legend Riyad Mahrez, who has been a source of inspiration for him for many years.

I used to watch him on television when I was younger and dreamt of one day playing alongside him. Now, I get to work with him and other top players like Baghdad Bounedjah and Ramy Bensebaini, who is well-known in Germany, and it’s all just incredible,” he said with a gleaming smile.

The young midfielder uses every training session as an opportunity to learn and improve, which is underpinned by his team-mates’ professionalism and talent. “It’s a dream come true,” he gushed with excitement in his eyes. He is acutely aware what these players have achieved for Algerian football, and wants to be part of that legacy while developing his own identity within the team. His team-mates’ support and advice are priceless to him as he sets off on this new adventure. This feeling of camaraderie and belonging, despite language barriers (he speaks English but understands Arabic), strengthens his determination to prosper and do his country proud.

Great expectations and major ambitions

Maza also clearly recognises that Algerian fans have high hopes and expectations of him. They see him as an emerging talent who could take the team to even greater heights and earn the title of “Mazouzi”, which means “the golden boy” in Arabic.

“I’ve received so many supportive messages since my call-up, and that means a lot to me,” he admitted. Grateful for the fans’ passion and commitment, he shows his gratitude for their love and affection. Maza is keen to repay their faith in him by giving his all on the pitch. “I want to help the team win as many honours as possible, starting with qualification and a victory in the CAF Africa Cup of Nations,” he added.

A passion that began in 2014

From there, dreams of qualification for FIFA World Cup 2026™ are only a step away. His passion for the world’s greatest sporting event began during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™. As a nine-year-old, Maza watched on as Algeria took on Germany in the famous round of 16 clash. He recalls watching the match with his family and feeling immensely proud to see his team putting up such a spirited fight.

“It was an incredible match,” Maza recalled. “We played with our heart on our sleeve, and even though we lost (2-1 a.e.t.), it was a landmark moment for Algeria.”

Algeria surprised the whole world with their determination and ability to stand up to the eventual champions in that match, not least thanks to the heroic display of goalkeeper Rais M’Bolhi.

“I remember every save he made,” said Maza. “It was inspirational and gave me the belief that I could also play at a high level one day.” For that young lad, it was more than just a football match; it inspired his dream of representing Algeria on the world stage.

Germany v Algeria | Round of 16 | 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ | played at Estádio Beira-Rio, Porto Alegre on Monday, 30 June 2014.

He also recalls how the players stuck together, and the chants of jubilation and pride that echoed across Brazilian stadiums. “That was when I realised what it meant to be Algerian and defend my nation’s colours,” he said. “It drove me to work relentlessly and believe in my abilities.”

Target: 2026 World Cup

Maza will only be 20 in 2026, but he’s already got his sights set on the future. He dreams of representing Algeria at the World Cup in North America.

“I’m working extremely hard to reach that level, and hopefully, I’ll be able to compete on the big stage with the team,” he said determinedly. Thanks to his passion, talent and ambition, the young prodigy is one to watch closely and is poised to make his mark on Algerian football history.

Source : https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026/articles/ibrahim-maza-algeria-interview