The Super Eagles of Nigeria face Algeria in the quarter-final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Marrakesh on Saturday.
Both sides have a perfect record in the ongoing competition, but Nigeria have been the most impressive so far, winning all matches within 90 minutes.
Eric Chelle, Eagles head coach, and his team face their toughest opponents so far, and here are four ways the Nigerian team can ensure their perfect record continues.
RETAIN THE FRONT THREE
Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Akor Adams have shown unbelievable chemistry, scoring nine of Nigeria’s 12 goals and contributing assists.
This formula must continue regardless of Osimhen’s on-field antics and overboard passion. They meet an Algerian defence that has conceded just once in this tournament, and the trio’s cooperation and intensity could be key to unlocking it, like they did against Tunisia.
PROTECT IWOBI
Iwobi sets the Super Eagles’ tempo with the right passes. The Fulham midfielder has touched the ball and completed passes more than any other Nigerian player in Morocco.
Hence, the 29-year-old would be targeted by Algeria’s midfield, especially Ismaël Bennacer, and both Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka — if he starts — must protect the playmaker by creating space for him to have more time on the ball.
DO NOT FOCUS SOLELY ON MAHREZ
Riyad Mahrez is Algeria’s most dangerous player despite his advanced years. The 34-year-old has three goals in the tournament so far, and his last-gasp free-kick that ousted Nigeria in 2019 remains fresh in Nigerians’ memories.
However, the Desert Foxes have other dangerous players, such as rugged striker Baghdad Bounedjah, Ibrahim Maza, and impact players Anis Hadj Moussa and Adil Boulbina; the latter’s extra-time goal sent DR Congo packing.
North African teams, club or country, are tricky opponents known for riling up opponents, getting them sent off, and using cunning methods to win penalties.
Traditionally, they possess the right arsenal to frustrate Nigeria into defeat, and the technical crew must keep reminding the players not to lose focus throughout the encounter.
Additionally, coach Chelle must ensure the drop in energy in second half of matches must be avoided against Algeria.
Nigeria barely escaped against Tunisia, and it could be different against Algeria. The match against Uganda has shown the Eagles have capable substitutes waiting on the wings, and should be trusted to maintain high levels late in the match.
