Football fans across Nigeria and Africa are gearing up for a monumental clash as the Super Eagles of Nigeria prepare to face their long-time rivals, the Desert Foxes of Algeria, in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
A Historic Rivalry Renewed in Marrakech
The highly anticipated match is scheduled for Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 5 pm local time. The battle will unfold at the Grande Stade de Marrakech in Morocco. This encounter reignites a historic football rivalry that spans over five decades, marking their first meeting at the AFCON tournament since the semi-final in Egypt back in 2019.
Both teams enter this knockout stage with perfect records, being the only sides to have won all their matches in the tournament so far. The stakes are incredibly high, as the winner will advance to face the Atlas Lions of Morocco in the semi-final.
Team News and Coach Perspectives
Ahead of the crucial match, both teams have provided updates on their squads. The Algerian camp reports that star midfielder Ismael Bennacer remains unavailable as he continues recovery from an injury sustained earlier. However, there is positive news as defenders Mohamed Amine Tougai and Samir Chergui have returned to training after overcoming knocks.
For Nigeria, there are no fresh injury concerns disrupting the squad's preparation. Striker Cyriel Dessers has left the camp due to a previous injury, while Ryan Alebiosu continues his rehabilitation.
Algeria's head coach, Vladimir Petkovic, emphasized the need for a complete performance. "Tomorrow, we need to be just as good defensively as offensively. That will be paramount. All the details will matter against Nigeria," the Bosnian tactician stated.
Mali's coach, Eric Chelle, whose team is not involved, commented on the rivalry, dismissing notions of revenge for the 2019 result. "I’m not dwelling on revenge for 2019. My priority is to compete fiercely and secure qualification," he was quoted as saying.
Where to Watch the AFCON Quarter-Final Live
Nigerian viewers can catch all the action live on SuperSport channels available on the DStv platform. The match will also be accessible via SuperSport's streaming services on mobile devices and other supported platforms.
Broadcast coverage extends across the continent. Fans in South Africa can tune in via SABC channels, while audiences in francophone African nations will have access through Canal+ Afrique.
This quarter-final is part of a thrilling double-header, with the defending champions, Cameroon's Indomitable Lions, set to face Egypt's Pharaohs in the final last-eight match later the same day at 8 pm.
The Nigerian Football Federation has expressed confidence in the team's attacking prowess, which has been the best in the tournament so far, promising a potent threat from the forward line.
