Algeria and Nigeria will renew their fierce rivalry on Saturday in one of Afcon 2025’s most anticipated quarter-finals.
Both sides arrive in Marrakech as top performers, boasting identical tournament records and strong title credentials.
The clash promises a compelling contest between Algeria’s disciplined defence and Nigeria’s explosive attack.
Match Details and Kick-Off Time
The quarter-final will take place at the Marrakech Stadium in Morocco.
Kick-off is scheduled for 5pm local time, which is 4pm GMT.
Tournament Form Sets Up Blockbuster Tie
Algeria have conceded just one goal in four matches at Afcon 2025.
Their compact defensive structure has frustrated opponents throughout the tournament.
Nigeria, in contrast, have emerged as the competition’s most prolific scorers.
The Super Eagles have netted 12 goals, led by a fluid and aggressive forward line.
Osimhen and Lookman Feud Raises Eyebrows
Nigeria’s last-16 win over Mozambique was overshadowed by a visible disagreement between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.
The incident occurred midway through the second half with Nigeria already leading comfortably.
Osimhen reacted angrily after Lookman chose to dribble rather than pass during an attack.
Captain Wilfred Ndidi intervened, while Mozambique players also stepped in to calm the situation.
Chelle Downplays Dressing Room Tension
Osimhen later requested substitution and headed straight down the tunnel at full-time.
The scenes sparked questions about unity within the Nigerian camp.
Lookman dismissed concerns after the match, insisting the issue was football-related.
Head coach Eric Chelle also refused to dwell on the incident, stressing internal harmony.
Road to the Quarter-Finals
Algeria reached the knockout stage with maximum points from their group.
They defeated Sudan, Burkina Faso and Equatorial Guinea before edging DR Congo in extra time.
Nigeria also topped their group with three wins.
The Super Eagles then dismantled Mozambique 4-0 to book their quarter-final place.
Key Players to Watch
Riyad Mahrez remains Algeria’s standout performer, scoring three goals so far.
Goalkeeper Luca Zidane has also impressed, keeping clean sheets in every appearance.
For Nigeria, Lookman has been the tournament’s creative heartbeat.
He has recorded three goals and four assists, while Osimhen continues to grow into the competition.
Head-to-Head History Favours Algeria
The two sides have met 22 times across all competitions.
Algeria hold a slight edge with 10 wins to Nigeria’s nine, alongside three draws.
Algeria have also proved difficult opponents for Nigeria at Afcon tournaments.
Their most notable success came in a 5-1 victory during the 1990 competition.
Team News and Predicted Line-Ups
Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic is monitoring Ismael Bennacer’s fitness after a recent injury scare.
Nigeria, meanwhile, have reported no fresh injury concerns.
Both managers are expected to field strong starting line-ups as the tournament enters its decisive phase.
Semi-Final Place at Stake
The winner of Saturday’s match will advance to face either Cameroon or hosts Morocco.
That semi-final will be played in Rabat on January 14.
With history, form and quality on both sides, Algeria versus Nigeria promises a defining night at Afcon 2025.
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