Maza stars for Algeria after bright Leverkusen beginning
Ibrahim Maza recorded a goal and an assist in Algeria's 3-1 victory over Zambia in an Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifier on Friday. The 20-year-old Bayer Leverkusen midfielder played the full match, equalizing before providing a back-heeled assist for Algeria's third goal. Maza has appeared in all four of Leverkusen's Bundesliga matches this season, contributing one goal and one assist.
Maza, a 20-year-old midfielder, completed the whole AFCON 2027 qualifier against Zambia. His goal restored Algeria's lead at the near post, and his back-heel set up the third. Algeria also fielded Ramy Bensebaini and Farès Chaïbi, both based in Germany's top flight.
At club level, Maza has featured in each of Leverkusen's four Bundesliga games this term, registering one goal and one assist. He was named Man of the Match in a 4-0 win over Union Berlin on Matchday 2 under new coach Carles Martínez. Algeria next visit Burundi on 29 September, then host Niger on 6 October; Leverkusen travel to Mainz on 10 October.
Maza's rise may boost visibility for young Bundesliga midfielders and Algerian football fans, giving Leverkusen supporters a point of pride. His performances could encourage clubs to trust younger players in major roles, while Algerian audiences may follow his club progress more closely. For Maza himself, added attention may bring commercial opportunities and pressure. The impact likely remains primarily sporting and cultural, not broad societal change.