Dar es Salaam. The stage is set for a thrilling quarter-final in the Africa Cup of Nations as Algeria take on Nigeria at the iconic Stade de Marrakech.
Both teams have been in fine form throughout the tournament, making this a highly anticipated clash between two of the continent’s football powerhouses.
Algeria, two-time AFCON champions, head into this game with confidence after a perfect group stage. They secured victories over Sudan, Burkina Faso, and Equatorial Guinea, scoring seven goals while conceding just one. Their disciplined approach has shown the Desert Warriors are serious contenders for the title.
In the round of 16, Algeria faced DR Congo in a tense encounter that went beyond regular time. A dramatic late goal from Adil Boulbina secured a 1-0 win, highlighting the team’s resilience in crucial moments.
Their recent form is impressive, with eleven wins from their last fourteen matches across all competitions. The only setback in this period came through a penalty shootout in the FIFA Arab Cup against the United Arab Emirates, a rare blemish on an otherwise strong run.
Despite their momentum, Algeria have faced challenges at the quarter-final stage in past AFCON tournaments, falling short in four of their last six appearances. This adds an element of historical pressure as they aim to progress further.
Nigeria, three-time continental champions, bring their own rich history of success in knockout football. The Super Eagles have consistently reached at least the semi-finals in fifteen of their previous twenty AFCON campaigns, demonstrating remarkable consistency.
This year, Nigeria have been unstoppable in the tournament so far. With four wins in four games, they have scored twelve goals and conceded just four, showcasing a lethal attack and a solid defensive setup.
Their round of 16 performance against Mozambique was dominant, producing a 4-0 victory. Victor Osimhen led the charge with a brace, while Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams also contributed, highlighting the team’s attacking depth and cohesion.
Historically, Nigeria have struggled against Algeria in recent years, failing to win in their last four encounters, including a 2-1 defeat in the 2019 AFCON semi-finals. Previous friendly matches in 2020 and 2022 also ended in losses, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this meeting.
Algeria have some fitness concerns ahead of the clash. Midfielder Ismael Bennacer is doubtful after being forced off against DR Congo. Jaouen Hadjam could return after recovering from injury, while Anis Hadj Moussa is expected to miss the remainder of the tournament.
Key Algerian players like Adil Boulbina and Riyad Mahrez will be central to the team’s attacking strategy. Mahrez has already scored three goals, making him one of the tournament’s top scorers and a player to watch closely.
Nigeria, by contrast, arrive with a fully fit squad. Their starting eleven is likely to mirror the setup used against Mozambique and Tunisia, with Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams, and Alexander Iwobi forming the core of the team’s offensive threat.
In defense, Stanley Nwabali will guard the goal, protected by a backline of Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, and Bruno Onyemaechi. Wilfred Ndidi will anchor the midfield, providing stability and defensive cover.
Frank Onyeka is expected to operate on the right side of midfield, with Lookman supporting a front two of Osimhen and Adams. Alexander Iwobi will be tasked with creating opportunities and linking play between midfield and attack.
The possible lineups are shaping up as follows:
Algeria: Zidane; Belghali, Mandi, Bensebaini, Ait Nouri; Boudaoui, Zerrouki, Chaibi; Mahrez, Amoura, Maza
Nigeria: Nwabali; Osayi-Samuel, Ajayi, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Onyeka, Ndidi, Iwobi; Lookman; Osimhen, Adams
Both teams have impressed with their attacking prowess and defensive organization, promising a highly competitive and entertaining match. Algeria’s defensive solidity will be tested against Nigeria’s relentless attacking force in what is expected to be a showcase of African football at its finest.
Fans can anticipate a high-intensity encounter, full of tactical battles, individual brilliance, and moments that could define the course of the tournament. The clash of these African giants is a must-watch event in AFCON 2025.
