Algeria captain, Riyad Mahrez, has jokingly expressed concern over Nigeria’s attacking firepower as the Super Eagles prepare to face the Desert Foxes in a blockbuster AFCON quarter-final showdown scheduled for 5 p.m. today, January 10.
Speaking to journalists in Morocco after Algeria’s most recent outing, the former Manchester City winger admitted that Nigeria’s impressive goal tally at the tournament has not gone unnoticed. The Super Eagles have been ruthless in front of goal, netting 12 goals on their way to the last eight.
“Nigeria have scored 12 goals, I am afraid,” Mahrez said with a laugh.
“They’ve scored a lot of goals in this competition. They have a very good attack, I can’t deny that. But tomorrow is another day.”
Despite Nigeria’s free-scoring form, Mahrez insisted Algeria are not intimidated and remain confident heading into the tie.
“I’m not scared at all. It’s football, and we have our own quality. I think it will be a very good game,” he added.
The quarter-final clash promises fireworks, with Nigeria’s explosive attack coming up against an Algerian side that has impressed defensively, conceding just one goal so far in the tournament.
However, Super Eagles defender Bright Osayi-Samuel believes Nigeria have what it takes to overcome Algeria’s solid backline and book a place in the semi-finals.
The Birmingham City full-back highlighted Nigeria’s attacking confidence as a major strength.
“In my opinion, we are the best attacking team in Africa, and we’ll do everything possible to win,” Osayi-Samuel said.
“We take it one game at a time. We know Nigerians are counting on us, and we’ll give everything to make them proud.”
Osayi-Samuel also pointed to Nigeria’s fast starts in previous matches as a potential advantage against a disciplined Algerian side.
“We always try to start games strongly. The aim is to win within 90 minutes, not penalties or extra time. That early intensity could be key against Algeria,” he explained.
Still, the defender was quick to acknowledge the quality within the Algerian squad.
“They’re a great team with very skilled players. They’ve barely conceded, and I watched their last match. But I believe we can win this game,” he concluded.
With both sides in top form, fans can expect a tense and entertaining encounter as Nigeria and Algeria battle for a place in the AFCON semi-finals.