The Desert Foxes of Algeria have been confirmed as the opponent of the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarterfinal round.
The stage is set following a high-stakes Round of 16 phase that saw eight teams go through to the quarter-finals, while the other eight teams were defeated.
Algeria secured its spot in the 2025 AFCON quarterfinal after defeating DR Congo on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.
The Desert Foxes overcame DR Congo 1-0 at the 119th minute through a “worldie” from substitute Adil Boulbina. The goal spared the North Africans the lottery of a penalty shootout, ensuring that they qualify for the 2025 AFCON quarterfinal.
The victory of Algeria means DR Congo won’t have the chance to face the Super Eagles following their famous victory in the World Cup qualification round.
On the other hand, Nigeria secured their passage with a statement performance on Monday night, dismantling Mozambique 4-0. Star striker Victor Osimhen netted a brace, while Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams added to the tally, cementing the Super Eagles’ status as the competition’s highest scorers with 12 goals in just four matches.
Pan-Atlantic Kompass reports that both Nigeria and Algeria entered the knockout rounds of the 2025 AFCON with 100% records from the group stage, making this upcoming fixture a “final before the final.”
While Nigeria’s attack has been relentless, Algeria’s defensive discipline and the veteran leadership of Riyad Mahrez have made them equally formidable.
The upcoming clash adds a new chapter to a history where these two have traded blows in the tournament’s biggest stages.
This matchup revives memories of their intense 2019 AFCON semifinal, where Algeria emerged victorious en route to lifting the trophy.
Recall also that in 1980, Nigeria won its first-ever AFCON title by defeating Algeria 3-0 in Lagos State.
In 1990, Algeria gained revenge on home soil, beating Nigeria 1-0 to claim their first continental trophy.
Nigeria, three-time champions and runners-up in 2023, will be seeking redemption after missing out on the 2026 World Cup.
It was gathered that Nigeria will face Algeria on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Grand Stade de Marrakech in Morocco.
The winner of this 2025 AFCON quarterfinal clash will advance to the semifinals in Rabat to face either hosts Morocco or Cameroon.
