Germany: Maza returns as a starter! (video)

Sep 21, 2026

After missing Bayer Leverkusen's last European match, Ibrahim Maza quickly returned to the pitch. The Algerian attacking midfielder was named in the starting lineup this Sunday against RB Leipzig during the fourth round of the Bundesliga, marking his return to competitive action.

Excluded from the match against NK Celje in the Europa League due to a flu-like illness, Ibrahim Maza regained his spot in Carles Martínez Novell's starting eleven for the clash with Leipzig. This inclusion demonstrates the trust placed in the young Algerian international, just days after his unavailability.

At 20 years old, Maza played the full match in this crucial encounter for Bayer Leverkusen. The German team ultimately won the match with a score of 2-0, securing a valuable victory in the league.

He was involved in the second goal scored by Miguel Gutierrez (57th minute) after a breakthrough on the right flank and could have set up a third goal for Patrik Schick had he not been stopped by the goalkeeper, after making a brilliant run through a crowd of opposing players before providing the assist.

This return to the field comes at an opportune moment for Ibrahim Maza, who is now set to join the Algerian national team gathering. The player is expected to arrive on Monday to join the group led by Brahim Hemdani for the first training camp under the new coach.

His presence throughout the match against Leipzig should allow the Fennecs' staff to count on a fit player for the upcoming fixtures. Algeria is set to face Zambia on September 25, before traveling four days later to challenge Burundi in the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Considered a key element of Hemdani's new project, Maza will thus join Sidi Moussa with match fitness and a full game under his belt. A particularly reassuring return ahead of this new adventure with the Greens.