Why Luca Zidane is playing for Algeria despite being related to France legend Zinedine originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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After a bumpy knockout stage, Luca Zidane is back in goal for Algeria in the World Cup Round of 32.
For the Desert Foxes to make a run in this tournament, he’ll have to be a standout in net.
He certainly has the pedigree to deliver on this stage.
Yes, he’s related to that Zidane.
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How is Luca Zidane related to Zinedine Zidane?
Luca is Zinedine’s son.
He’s 28 years old now, trying to live up to a big-time last name.
Luca is the second-oldest of four sons of Zinedine. He’s the only goalie.
The goalkeeper plays for Granada in Spain when he’s not representing his country.
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Why does Luca Zidane represent Algeria?
Luca switched to Algeria a year ago. It’s the country where his grandparents were born.
He credited Algeria’s culture for his upbringing.
“We’ve lived in an Algerian culture since we were small,” Luca Zidane told The Athletic. “It’s an honor to play for Algeria. The final decision was mine, but I spoke with my family, my parents, my brothers, my grandfather. My father was happy, he knew it was something I wanted to do. To be able to play in a World Cup is a dream for any kid.”
Now, he’s trying to make his country, and his family, proud.
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