The Super Eagles of Nigeria and Algeria have officially released their starting line-ups ahead of tonight’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final showdown. The highly anticipated encounter is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. WAT on Saturday, January 10.
Nigeria head into the heavyweight clash hoping to secure a spot in consecutive AFCON semi-finals. However, they face a stern challenge from an in-form Algerian side that has enjoyed recent success against the Super Eagles in past meetings.
Algeria come into the tie full of confidence after recording four straight victories at the tournament. Determined to avoid a repeat of their disappointing group-stage exits at the last two AFCON competitions, the Desert Foxes edged past DR Congo after extra time in the round of 16 and have now won 11 of their last 14 international matches.
Despite their strong momentum, Algeria’s recent AFCON history offers a word of caution, having suffered elimination at the quarter-final stage in four of their last six knockout appearances.
Nigeria, on the other hand, stormed into the last eight with a dominant 4–0 win over Mozambique. The Super Eagles have maintained a perfect record at the tournament, winning all four matches and scoring a competition-high 12 goals so far. As they chase their first AFCON title since 2013, history suggests a closely fought battle, as Nigeria have not won a quarter-final by more than one goal since 1994.
Algeria have also held the edge in recent head-to-head meetings, winning the last three encounters between both sides by a one-goal margin. Their latest victory came in a 2–1 friendly win against Nigeria in September 2022.
Mohamed Amoura will spearhead Algeria’s attack tonight and is known for his decisive impact, with each of his last 12 international goals coming in high-scoring matches. For Nigeria, Ademola Lookman has been one of the standout performers at the tournament, finding the net in three of the Super Eagles’ four matches, including the emphatic win over Mozambique.
Confirmed Starting Line-ups for Nigeria vs Algeria
Algeria (4-4-2):
Anthony Mandrea (GK); Rayan Aït-Nouri, Ramy Bensebaini, Aïssa Mandi, Raïs Belghali; Riyad Mahrez (captain), Hicham Boudaoui, Ramiz Zerrouki, Farès Chaïbi; Ibrahim Maza, Mohamed Amoura.
Nigeria (4-3-1-2):
Stanley Nwabali (GK); Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi; Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi (captain), Alex Iwobi; Ademola Lookman; Victor Osimhen, Akor Adams.
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