One of the standout quarter-final clashes at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations sees 2019 champions Algeria take on three-time winners Nigeria in a repeat of their dramatic 2019 semi-final encounter. Both sides have been impeccable so far, winning all four matches en route to Marrakech, with Nigeria leading the scoring charts and Algeria boasting the tightest defence.
The match kicks off at 16:00 GMT on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Grand Stade de Marrakech in Marrakech, Morocco. This neutral-venue tie marks Algeria’s first game away from Rabat at this tournament, potentially disrupting their rhythm. No referee has been officially confirmed following recent changes to the initial appointment.
BETTING TIPS AND MATCH INSIGHTS
This heavyweight quarter-final pits Algeria’s organised defence against Nigeria’s explosive attack, promising fine margins and tactical intrigue. Recent form suggests goals, but historical tightness in knockouts points to caution. For those seeking value in the Algeria vs Nigeria prediction today, focus on Nigeria’s superior freshness after a comfortable round-of-16 win, while Algeria battled through extra time. Expect a contest decided by individual brilliance rather than dominance. Sharp bettors will monitor late team news, as fatigue could play a role.
Algeria Results
Algeria have rediscovered their winning mentality after early exits in recent tournaments, storming through the group stage with clean sheets before a gritty extra-time victory. Their defensive solidity has been key, conceding just once across four matches. The Desert Foxes now face their sternest test yet.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | Outcome |
| 06.01.26 | ACN R16 | Algeria vs D.R. Congo | 1-0 | W |
| 31.12.25 | ACN | Equatorial Guinea vs Algeria | 1-3 | W |
| 28.12.25 | ACN | Algeria vs Burkina Faso | 1-0 | W |
| 24.12.25 | ACN | Algeria vs Sudan | 3-0 | W |
| 12.12.25 | ARC | Algeria vs United Arab Emirates | 1-2 | L |
Algeria enter on a run of four consecutive victories at this tournament, scoring efficiently while keeping things tight at the back. That extra-time effort against DR Congo tested their resolve but highlighted character. Prior to the tournament, results were mixed, but current momentum is undeniable. They have won 11 of their last 14 internationals overall. Defensive resilience remains their hallmark, though the step up in opposition could expose any lingering fatigue.
Nigeria Results
Nigeria have been the tournament’s entertainers, topping the goal charts with 12 strikes across four games and cruising into the quarters with a dominant display. The Super Eagles look refreshed and dangerous in transition. Their knockout pedigree adds confidence ahead of this clash.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | Outcome |
| 05.01.26 | ACN R16 | Nigeria vs Mozambique | 4-0 | W |
| 30.12.25 | ACN | Uganda vs Nigeria | 1-3 | W |
| 27.12.25 | ACN | Nigeria vs Tunisia | 3-2 | W |
| 23.12.25 | ACN | Nigeria vs Tanzania | 2-1 | W |
| 16.12.25 | FI | Egypt vs Nigeria | 2-1 | L |
Nigeria’s four straight wins at AFCON 2025 showcase ruthless finishing and clinical counter-attacks. They dismantled Mozambique with ease, preserving energy for this quarter-final. Conceding in three of four games highlights minor defensive vulnerabilities. The pre-tournament friendly loss aside, their attacking cohesion has overwhelmed opponents. This form makes them a feared knockout side once again.
Algeria vs Nigeria Head-to-Head (Last 5 Meetings)
Algeria hold psychological edge in recent encounters, winning the last three meetings by narrow margins, including the 2019 AFCON semi-final thriller. These fixtures often deliver drama and few goals. Nigeria will aim to reverse the trend in Marrakech.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result |
| 27.09.22 | FI | Algeria vs Nigeria | 2-1 |
| 09.10.20 | FI | Nigeria vs Algeria | 0-1 |
| 14.07.19 | ACN | Algeria vs Nigeria | 2-1 |
| 10.11.17 | WC | Algeria vs Nigeria | 1-1 |
| 12.11.16 | WC | Nigeria vs Algeria | 3-1 |
Algeria have dominated lately with three consecutive one-goal victories. Earlier World Cup qualifiers were more open. Expect another cagey affair given the stakes.
Algeria vs Nigeria Predicted Starting Lineups
Lineups are subject to late changes based on final training sessions and coach decisions, but here are the most likely starting XIs for this AFCON quarter-final clash. Algeria may adjust midfield due to injuries, while Nigeria are expected to field their strongest side after a dominant round-of-16 performance.
Algeria predicted lineup:
Zidane (GK); Belghali (DF), Mandi (DF), Bensebaini (DF), Ait Nouri (DF); Boudaoui (MF), Zerrouki (MF), Chaibi (MF); Mahrez (FW), Amoura (FW), Maza (FW)
Nigeria predicted lineup:
Nwabali (GK); Osayi-Samuel (DF), Ajayi (DF), Bassey (DF), Onyemaechi (DF); Onyeka (MF), Ndidi (MF), Iwobi (MF); Lookman (FW); Osimhen (FW), Adams (FW)
Injured and Questionable Players
Several key absences could influence the match, particularly in Algeria’s midfield. Nigeria enter the tie close to full strength. Always check for last-minute updates ahead of kick-off.
| Team | Player | Reason |
| Algeria | Ismaël Bennacer | Injury (picked up vs DR Congo) |
| Algeria | Anis Hadj-Moussa | Suspension |
| Algeria | Jaouen Hadjam | Injury (doubtful) |
| Algeria | Samir Chergui | Injury (doubtful) |
| Algeria | Mohamed Tougai | Injury (doubtful) |
| Nigeria | Cyriel Dessers | Injury (ruled out for tournament) |
Key Factors and Team News
Both sides arrive in strong form, but subtle differences could decide this quarter-final. Nigeria’s attacking depth contrasts Algeria’s defensive organisation. Late fitness updates will be crucial on match day.
- Algeria missing key midfielder Ismaël Bennacer through injury picked up against DR Congo; Anis Hadj-Moussa suspended;
- Nigeria close to full strength, with only Cyriel Dessers ruled out long-term; Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman in scintillating form;
- Algeria unbeaten in four at this AFCON but played 120 minutes in round of 16, potentially causing fatigue;
- Nigeria on a four-game winning streak, scoring 12 goals – tournament high;
- All four goals conceded by Nigeria came after half-time, suggesting strong starts;
- Mohamed Amoura dangerous for Algeria when scoring; Ademola Lookman netted in three of four games;
- Change of venue to Marrakech may unsettle Algeria after comfortable Rabat stay;
- Nigeria resolved internal bonus dispute, maintaining focus;
- Six of Algeria’s last nine games under 2.5 goals; contrasts Nigeria’s high-scoring run;
- Historical H2H favours Algeria recently, but Nigeria fresher overall.
Free Tips on Algeria vs Nigeria
Before placing any bets on this highly anticipated AFCON quarter-final clash, consider these practical, data-backed tips drawn from team statistics, historical trends, and match-specific context. These insights focus on overlooked elements like scheduling impacts and tactical matchups to help identify potential value. With both sides in top form but facing unique challenges, smart preparation can make all the difference.
- Recent Schedule and Fatigue: Algeria played a gruelling 120-minute extra-time match against DR Congo just days ago, while Nigeria breezed through with a comfortable 4-0 win over Mozambique – monitor for signs of tiredness in Algeria’s legs, especially in the second half where Nigeria have conceded all four tournament goals.
- Tactics and Style of Play: Nigeria’s explosive counter-attacks and high pressing could exploit Algeria’s organised but potentially slower build-up; expect the Super Eagles to target transitions, given their tournament-leading 12 goals often come from quick breaks.
- Referee Influence: With a new referee likely appointed after recent changes (previously Somali official Omar Artan was withdrawn), check late announcements – African referees in knockouts often allow physical play, potentially favouring Nigeria’s robust midfield duels.
- Pitch Surface and Conditions: The Grand Stade de Marrakech features well-maintained natural grass; in mid-January Marrakech weather (mild, around 18-20°C daytime with possible cool evenings), the pitch should suit fast, technical football rather than slowing the game down.
- Betting Odds Movement: Sharp money has trended towards Nigeria due to their freshness and attacking output – compare Algeria vs Nigeria odds across books for value on the Super Eagles, especially if Algeria’s H2H edge inflates their price unnaturally.
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Algeria vs Nigeria Match Prediction 2026
This quarter-final promises tension and quality, pitting the tournament’s best attack (Nigeria) against its stingiest defence (Algeria). The Super Eagles’ firepower, led by Osimhen and Lookman, should prove decisive against a weary Algerian side post-extra time. Algeria’s recent H2H dominance adds intrigue, but Nigeria’s freshness and knockout experience tilt the balance. Expect goals at both ends in a high-stakes battle, yet Nigeria’s clinical edge prevails narrowly. Algeria vs Nigeria odds reflect a close contest, with value on the Super Eagles advancing. Backing Nigeria offers solid potential given their form and motivation to avenge past defeats. A repeat of tight margins likely, but the three-time champions progress.
Our Prediction: Algeria 1-2 Nigeria
| Prediction Type | Prediction | Odds |
| Match Result | Nigeria to win | 2.46 |
| Both Teams to Score | Yes | 1.96 |
| Total Goals | Over 2.5 Goals | 2.34 |
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