According to the Algerian Football Federation, Maza is one of seven midfielders selected for the tournament, alongside experienced internationals including Nabil Bentaleb and Houssem Aouar.

Born in 2005 to an Algerian father and a Vietnamese mother, Maza grew up in Germany and represented the country at youth level before choosing to represent Algeria at senior international level. The 20-year-old is currently valued at €45 million by Transfermarkt, making him the most valuable footballer of Vietnamese origin in the world.

His inclusion in the squad follows a standout 2025-26 campaign with Bayer Leverkusen. The young midfielder made 28 appearances in all competitions, including 20 starts, scoring three goals and providing four assists.

Maza combines strong technical skills with impressive dribbling, passing ability and long-range shooting. While primarily an attacking midfielder, he can also play on either wing, in central midfield and, when required, as a centre-forward.

German media have recently reported that Maza has attracted interest from Barcelona, with the Spanish club said to value his versatility, pace and ability to create chances.

French-born footballer granted Vietnamese citizenship

Cao Pendant Quang Vinh, a French-born footballer currently playing for the Hanoi Police FC, has officially received Vietnamese citizenship, according to the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF).