The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 will reach a decisive stage today, Saturday, January 10, as the Super Eagles of Nigeria take on the Fennec Foxes of Algeria at the Stade de Marrakech, with kick-off scheduled for 5:00 PM WAT. This quarter-final matchup pits two of Africa’s football powerhouses against each other, combining for five AFCON titles – Nigeria with three and Algeria with two. The winner will advance to face either Cameroon or host nation Morocco in the semi-finals.

Both sides enter this clash on impressive runs. Nigeria has won all four of its matches so far, leading the tournament in goals scored with 12 strikes. Algeria, meanwhile, boasts a near-impenetrable defense, conceding just once across four games. With these contrasting strengths, the fixture promises to be a high-stakes encounter, effectively a semi-final in all but name.

Key Players to Watch

For Algeria, goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of French legend Zinedine Zidane, has been outstanding, keeping three clean sheets and conceding just once. Algerian captain Riyad Mahrez, a former Manchester City winger, has scored three goals, including a memorable free-kick that eliminated Nigeria in the AFCON 2019 semi-final. With hints that this could be his final AFCON, Mahrez brings both experience and determination to the pitch.

Nigeria’s attacking threat is spearheaded by Ademola Lookman, the Atalanta winger who has contributed three goals and four assists in just three games, building on a career AFCON record of six goals and five assists in 11 appearances. Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, with three goals, remains a constant goal threat, while midfielder Alex Iwobi’s superior passing ability will be crucial in breaking down Algeria’s compact setup.

Team News

Algeria faces a major setback with midfielder Ismaël Bennacer a significant doubt due to a muscle injury suffered in the Round of 16 against DR Congo. Bennacer, a key member of Algeria’s 2019 AFCON-winning squad, is unlikely to feature, with Ramiz Zerrouki expected to fill in. Nigeria’s squad is largely intact, with Cyriel Dessers the only confirmed absentee.

Coach Eric Chelle is expected to field a strong Super Eagles XI. Stanley Nwabali will start in goal behind a solid backline of Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi at center-back. Bruno Onyemaechi and Bright Osayi-Samuel will handle Algeria’s wingers, including Mohamed Amoura. Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka are set to shield the defense in midfield, with Iwobi orchestrating play. The attack will likely feature Lookman, Osimhen, and Akor Adams – a trio tasked with piercing Algeria’s formidable defense.

The Stakes

Algerian captain Mahrez has emphasized the quality and intensity required for victory, asserting that his team must perform at its absolute best. With one of Africa’s premier teams set to exit, the match promises drama, technical brilliance, and high-stakes football as Nigeria and Algeria vie for a place in the semi-finals.

Kick-off is at 5:00 PM WAT, and African football fans can expect a fiercely contested battle between two continental giants.