Nigeria and Algeria arrive at the AFCON 2025 quarter-final with contrasting paths but equal ambition, Footynaija.com reports.
The Super Eagles have gone through the tournament with attacking swagger, scoring 12 goals in four matches and winning every game so far.
Algeria, meanwhile, have built their run on control and defensive order, winning all three group games before edging DR Congo 1–0 after extra time in the round of 16. They have conceded only once in normal time.
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For the Super Eagles to move into the semi-finals, here are three specific elements must fall into place.
1. Keep the team united
Nigeria’s strength at AFCON 2025 has come from teamwork and attacking link-ups, especially between Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen. Their understanding has led to regular chances and dragged defences out of shape, proving how well-drilled team play can unlock even the tightest setups.
However, in the Mozambique game, a momentary breakdown in communication left Osimhen frustrated, as passes didn’t connect and he eventually asked to be substituted. That incident highlights how easily momentum can slip when team unity falters.
Against Algeria, Nigeria must preserve their cohesion, trust each other in attack, and maintain rhythm throughout the match to unlock a disciplined defence.
2. Turn midfield turnovers into instant attacks
Algeria are comfortable when matches settle into long spells of possession. Their midfield circulates the ball, resets shape, and waits for openings. What they do not enjoy is being forced into recovery runs.
Nigeria’s best moments at this AFCON have often followed instantly after regaining possession. Wilfred Ndidi’s timely interceptions and Alex Iwobi’s sharp forward passes, crucial especially in the 4-0 win over Mozambique, have triggered quick breaks into space. That urgency has been a recurring theme in many of their goals.
Victor Osimhen benefits most from this. His movement is sharpest when defenders are facing their own goal. When Nigeria hesitate after winning possession, Algeria have time to regroup. When Nigeria play forward within seconds, they become dangerous.
3. Close out games better
Nigeria have scored freely in this tournament, but they have also shown moments of vulnerability when games should have been wrapped up. In their 3–2 win over Tunisia, the Super Eagles raced into a 3–0 lead with goals from Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman, only to concede two late goals in the final 15 minutes and make the finish nervy.
Tunisia first pulled one back through Montassar Talbi and then got a penalty converted by Ali Abdi in the 87th minute, forcing Nigeria to defend deep to hold on for victory.
In the Uganda game, even after a comfortable advantage, the Cranes still managed to score despite facing a side in control, showing the defence can drop focus when the outcome seems settled.
Across four matches, Nigeria have conceded goals in every game, even with wins over Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda and Mozambique, which highlights an ongoing issue with game management at the back.
To beat a disciplined Algeria side that do not give away many clear chances, the Super Eagles must maintain concentration after taking the lead, manage the tempo in the closing stages, and protect transitions more sharply.
If Nigeria allow late momentum swings like those they have experienced so far in this tournament, Algeria, patient and tactically strong, will take advantage and profit from any lapses.
