Former Nigerian defender Ben Iroha believes the Super Eagles have what it takes to overcome Algeria in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, provided they maximise three key qualities, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria have been flawless so far in Morocco and now face one of their toughest tests yet against an Algeria side that has also won all four of their matches at the tournament.
Eric Chelle’s men will be fully aware of the threat posed by the Fennec Foxes, who have dominated recent meetings between both sides, winning the last four encounters, including Nigeria’s extra-time heartbreak at the semifinals of the 2019 AFCON.
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Ahead of Saturday’s showdown, Iroha, who faced Algeria three times during his Super Eagles career, has pinpointed skill, speed and physicality as the decisive factors that could tilt the contest in Nigeria’s favour.
“They are a good side, no doubt. But they are full of antics. They are technically and tactically disciplined too,” Iroha told Complete Sport in a recent interview.
“So, if the Super Eagles put their skills to good use, add their speed and physical attributes to the game, I’ve no doubt they will defeat Algeria.
“With skill, speed and physicality, the Super Eagles should knock Algeria off their traditional play, denying them time and space all through the game. Then victory will come.”
Nigeria and Algeria have a long-standing rivalry on the African continent. Their first ever meeting dates back to the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations finals, a game the Desert Warriors won with a comfortable 3-0 scoreline.
While their head-to-head record has pretty much evened out over the years, Algeria’s recent dominance means the Super Eagles will have their work cut out for them in Marrakech. This game has all the ingredients to be a highly entertaining encounter.
