The Algerian Desert Warriors meet the Nigerian Green Eagles in a fiery summit in the quarter-finals. Starting at five o’clock Moroccan time, at the large Marrakech stadium.
Algeria, the 1990 champion, has returned strongly in this tournament after two disappointing exits in the previous editions. The “Greens” have shown outstanding defensive performance so far, having conceded only one goal in four matches and qualified for the quarter-finals after a dramatic win in extra time over the Democratic Republic of Congo with a goal from Aadil Bouliba in the 119th minute.
Star Riyad Mahrez leads the attack with three goals, while Ibrahim Mahzah, Anis Moussa, and Mohamed Amoura add a lot of danger.
On the other hand, Nigeria (three-time champions) is showing an amazing level and has not lost yet in the tournament. The Green Eagles crushed Mozambique 4-0 in the Round of 16, thanks to the brilliance of Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman (the latter is one of the best players of the tournament so far with three goals and four assists).
The Nigerian attack is lethal, and the team has a great history of reaching advanced stages (16 times in the semi-finals!). A historic clash between two strong teams, where Algeria has won the last three encounters between them (the last being a friendly in 2022 with a score of 2-1). But Nigeria has the experience and attacking power to turn the tables. Will the Algerians continue their resurgence and reach the semi-finals for the first time since 2019?
