- Nigeria and Algeria meet in a tense AFCON 2025 quarter-final showdown
- Both teams arrive with perfect records at the tournament
- Osimhen, Lookman and Mahrez headline a star-filled contest
- Nigeria’s attack faces Algeria’s disciplined defence
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has reached the stage where reputations matter, and Nigeria versus Algeria fits that description perfectly.
Algeria, champions in 2019, have looked sharp from the opening game. Vladimir Petkovic’s side cruised through the group stage with three straight wins, scoring freely while conceding just once. They followed that up with a dramatic round-of-16 victory over DR Congo, sealed by Adil Boulbina’s late extra-time strike.
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That result extended Algeria’s impressive recent form, but history offers a warning. The Desert Warriors have been eliminated at the quarter-final stage in four of their last six AFCON knockout appearances.
Nigeria, however, are well used to going deep in this competition. The Super Eagles have reached the semi-finals or better in 15 of their last 20 AFCON outings. After falling short in the last final, Eric Chelle’s men are determined to go one step further this time.
Nigeria have won all four matches at AFCON 2025, scoring 12 goals, the highest tally in the tournament. Their 4-0 demolition of Mozambique in the round of 16 showcased their attacking power, with Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman both on target again.
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Speaking after that win, Chelle said: “We respect Algeria, but we believe in our strength. This team is hungry and focused.”
Still, Algeria remain a difficult opponent. Nigeria have not beaten them in their last four meetings, including the painful 2019 AFCON semi-final defeat.
Algeria are monitoring the fitness of Ismael Bennacer after he picked up a knock in the last match. Jaouen Hadjam could return, while Anis Hadj Moussa is expected to miss out.
Riyad Mahrez remains Algeria’s key man, sitting just one goal behind the tournament’s top scorers.
Nigeria have no major injury concerns. Osimhen and Lookman both have three goals, while Wilfred Ndidi continues to anchor the midfield effectively.
Possible Lineups
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
Prediction
Algeria 1–2 Nigeria
This match is expected to be tight, but Nigeria’s attacking depth and confidence in front of goal could make the difference late on.
