Algeria vs Nigeria Preview: Kick-Off Time, Team News and AFCON Quarter-Final Battle
Two of Africa’s biggest football nations collide this weekend as Algeria and Nigeria meet in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals, with a place in the semi-finals up for grabs.
The match brings together a Nigerian side still chasing its first AFCON title since 2013 and an Algerian team eager to reclaim continental glory after their 2019 triumph. Both teams have impressed in Morocco, setting up a showdown that promises intensity, quality and drama.
Road to the Quarter-Finals
Nigeria arrive in Marrakesh with confidence after a dominant 4–0 victory over Mozambique in the Round of 16. That performance confirmed their status as one of the most dangerous attacking sides in the tournament.
However, their build-up was not without issues. A disagreement over unpaid bonuses threatened to disrupt preparations, with reports suggesting players were ready to boycott training and even travel arrangements. The Nigeria Football Federation later confirmed the matter had been settled, allowing the Super Eagles to focus fully on their quarter-final challenge.
Algeria, meanwhile, booked their place in the last eight by overcoming DR Congo after extra time, a physically demanding encounter that tested their depth and resilience. Their preparations have been far smoother, but the added minutes in their legs could play a role.
The winner of this tie will face either Morocco or Cameroon in the semi-finals.
Match Details
- Fixture: Algeria vs Nigeria
- Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026
- Kick-off: 5:00 pm
- Venue: Marrakesh Stadium, Morocco
Team News
Algeria
Ismael Bennacer is a doubt after being substituted during the win over DR Congo. The midfielder, who now plays for Dinamo Zagreb, joins Jaouen Hadjam, Samir Chergui and Mohamed Tougai on the injury list.
Captain Riyad Mahrez is expected to start after being rested in the previous round, while Adil Boulbina could earn a first start after scoring the winning goal in extra time.
Nigeria
Striker Akor Adams is available again after briefly leaving camp for personal reasons. With Cyriel Dessers ruled out of the rest of the tournament, Nigeria are expected to stick with the same attacking setup that dismantled Mozambique.
That means Victor Osimhen should once again lead the line, despite some internal tension following his on-field disagreement earlier in the competition.
Head-to-Head Record
Algeria and Nigeria have one of the most evenly balanced rivalries in African football.
- Algeria wins: 10
- Nigeria wins: 9
- Draws: 3
Their most recent meeting came in a September 2022 friendly, where Algeria claimed a 2–1 win thanks to goals from Riyad Mahrez and Youcef Atal.
Match Outlook
Both teams boast powerful attacking options and strong defensive units, making this quarter-final difficult to call. Nigeria may have the fresher legs after Algeria’s 120-minute battle in the previous round, but the Desert Warriors carry the experience of winning major knockout matches.
With a semi-final place on the line, small moments could decide the outcome in what is shaping up to be one of the standout matches of AFCON 2025.
SportsLigue