Nigeria vs Algeria: AFCON quarter-final showdown set for Saturday
Nigeria faces Algeria in the AFCON 2025 quarter-final this Saturday at Marrakech Stadium, Morocco. Kickoff is 5pm WAT, with the winner advancing to the semi-finals. This is a rematch of the 2019 semi-final, where Algeria's Riyad Mahrez scored a stunning late free-kick to win 1-0.
The Super Eagles bring explosive form, scoring 12 goals in four matches. Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman each have three goals, while Sevilla's Akor Adams adds two assists and one goal. However, Nigeria's defense has kept only one clean sheet, conceding multiple goals despite their attacking power. The team recently resolved a bonus dispute that threatened a boycott.
Algeria enters as 2019 champions with an impenetrable defense, conceding just one goal in four games. Goalkeeper Lucas Zidane—son of French legend Zinedine—hasn't conceded in his three appearances. Mahrez leads their attack with three goals, supported by Ibrahim Maza (two goals) and Anis Moussa. Midfielder Ismael Bennacer is doubtful for the match.
Nigeria's 2018 World Cup qualifier victory (3-0) offers hope, but Algeria leads their head-to-head record with 10 wins to Nigeria's nine. The Super Eagles seek redemption after missing the 2026 World Cup and losing the last AFCON final. Will Nigeria's attacking firepower crack Algeria's rock-solid defense, or will the Desert Foxes advance?
Watch live on Saturday at 5pm WAT. The winner faces the Morocco-Cameroon victor in the semi-finals.