Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez has declared his side ready for their heavyweight quarter-final clash against Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The North Africans booked their place in the last eight after edging DR Congo in a tense Round of 16 encounter that went into extra time following a goalless draw in regulation time. Substitute Adel Boulbina’s stunning strike proved decisive, sealing a narrow victory for the Greens.
Nigeria, meanwhile, cruised into the quarter-finals with an emphatic 4-0 win over Mozambique, setting up a mouthwatering showdown between two of Africa’s traditional powerhouses.
Speaking after the win over DR Congo, Mahrez expressed confidence ahead of the Super Eagles clash.
“We know Nigeria, and we will be ready for this match,” the former Manchester City and Leicester City winger told beIN SPORTS.
Saturday’s quarter-final will take place on January 10 at the Marrakech Stadium, with a semi-final place at stake.
The fixture rekindles memories of the 2019 AFCON semi-final in Egypt, when Algeria defeated Nigeria 2-1 en route to lifting their second continental title.
