Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez has sounded a rallying call ahead of his side’s blockbuster Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final showdown against Nigeria, insisting the Desert Foxes are ready to leave everything on the pitch.
The two African heavyweights meet on Saturday, January 10, in a highly anticipated rematch of their dramatic 2019 AFCON semi-final, with a place in the last four up for grabs.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Mahrez stressed that the contest will be decided by the smallest details, given the quality on both sides.
“It will be a very good game to play, and I think as good as well to watch, so we are ready,” Mahrez said. “We’re going to give everything for our country. We are in the big stages, and the big stages are about details. I think the game against Nigeria will be about details.”
The Algerian skipper has been in fine form at the tournament, scoring three goals so far, and will be key as his side looks to navigate another tough knockout test.
Algeria booked their quarter-final spot with a gritty 1-0 extra-time victory over DR Congo in the round of 16, underlining their resilience and tactical discipline.
Nigeria, however, arrive as the tournament’s most potent attacking force, having scored 12 goals in four matches, including a dominant 4-0 win over Mozambique to reach the last eight.
Algeria will take confidence from their memorable 2019 AFCON triumph, where they defeated Nigeria on their way to lifting the trophy. With history, pride, and a semi-final place on the line, Mahrez’s call for a focused, all-out performance sets the tone for what promises to be one of AFCON 2025’s standout encounters.
