Algeria have been confirmed as Nigeria’s opponents in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), setting up another high-profile clash between two of Africa’s football giants.
The North African side secured their place in the last eight on Tuesday night after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). The Round of 16 encounter was tense and closely contested, with both teams struggling to break each other down for most of the match.
After 90 minutes of regular time ended goalless, the game moved into extra time and appeared to be heading for a penalty shootout. However, Algeria found a late breakthrough in the 118th minute when Adil Boulbina produced a moment of brilliance to settle the contest.
Boulbina received the ball on the left side of the pitch, cut inside past his marker, and fired a powerful shot beyond the DR Congo goalkeeper, sending Algerian fans into wild celebration. The goal sealed Algeria’s passage into the quarter-finals and confirmed their meeting with Nigeria.
Nigeria, popularly known as the Super Eagles, booked their own quarter-final ticket on Monday night with an emphatic 4-0 win over Mozambique. The match was played in Fez, Morocco, where the Super Eagles delivered one of their most convincing performances of the tournament so far.
The victory over Mozambique underlined Nigeria’s growing confidence and attacking strength as the competition enters its decisive stage. Goals from different players showed the depth in the Super Eagles squad and raised hopes among Nigerian fans that the team can go all the way in the tournament.
The quarter-final match between Nigeria and Algeria is scheduled for Saturday, January 10. Kick-off is set for 5pm local time, and the match is expected to attract huge attention across the continent due to the long-standing rivalry between the two teams.
Nigeria and Algeria are among Africa’s most successful football nations. Both countries have won the AFCON trophy three times and have produced some of the continent’s finest players over the years. Whenever they meet, the match is usually intense, physical, and full of drama.
Their rivalry dates back several decades, with memorable encounters at both the Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA World Cup qualifiers. One of the most painful memories for Nigerian fans remains the 2019 AFCON semi-final, where Algeria defeated Nigeria 2-1 with a last-minute free kick to reach the final.
That defeat still lingers in the minds of many Super Eagles supporters, and the upcoming quarter-final offers Nigeria a chance for revenge. Several members of the current Nigerian squad were part of the team that lost to Algeria in 2019, adding extra motivation ahead of Saturday’s clash.
Algeria, known as the Fennec Foxes, came into AFCON 2025 with high expectations. After a disappointing group-stage exit in the 2021 edition, they arrived at this tournament determined to restore pride and re-establish themselves as a top force in African football.
Their narrow win over DR Congo showed their resilience and ability to grind out results, even when goals are hard to come by. Algeria boast a mix of experienced players and young talents, with many playing in top European leagues.
Nigeria, on the other hand, have looked solid and disciplined throughout the competition. The Super Eagles have combined strong defence with quick attacking play, a balance that has helped them overcome tough opponents.
Head coach José Peseiro has been praised for his tactical approach and ability to get the best out of his players. Under his guidance, Nigeria have shown improved team spirit and focus, key qualities needed at the knockout stage of a major tournament.
The 4-0 victory over Mozambique was Nigeria’s biggest win of AFCON 2025 so far. It also boosted the team’s goal difference and confidence as they prepare for a much tougher test against Algeria.
For Nigerian fans, expectations are high. Many believe this Super Eagles team has what it takes to win the trophy and end the country’s AFCON title drought, which dates back to 2013. Reaching the semi-finals would be a major step toward that goal.
Across Nigeria, football fans are already looking forward to Saturday’s match. Viewing centres, homes, and sports bars are expected to be packed as supporters rally behind the national team.
The winner of the Nigeria versus Algeria match will advance to the semi-finals, moving one step closer to lifting the AFCON 2025 trophy. For both teams, the quarter-final represents not just a game, but a statement of ambition.