The Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final stage concludes this Saturday (10) with a blockbuster clash between Algeria and Nigeria, featuring some of the biggest names in African and world football. The decisive match kicks off at 6:00 PM (UK time) in Marrakech, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.
Among the stars expected to shape the outcome are Riyad Mahrez, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Osimhen, all of whom have already made their mark in the tournament.
Ademola Lookman Shines for Nigeria
Nigeria’s main attacking reference has been Ademola Lookman. Voted African Player of the Year in 2024, the Atalanta forward arrives in the quarter-finals with three goals and four assists, making him one of the competition’s most decisive players.
Lookman is currently the second-highest scorer and the top assist provider of the tournament. His performances earned him a spot in the Group Stage Team of the Tournament, highlighting his influence in Nigeria’s campaign.
Mahrez Remains Algeria’s Key Weapon
On the Algerian side, Riyad Mahrez continues to be the team’s creative engine. The winger, who built a decorated career with Manchester City and Leicester City, has also scored three goals in the Africa Cup of Nations so far.
Mahrez’s experience in major tournaments and decisive matches places him as Algeria’s biggest hope in breaking down Nigeria’s defense and guiding the team to the semi-finals.
Osimhen Adds Firepower to Nigeria
Completing the trio of stars is Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s center-forward and one of the most feared strikers in world football. Currently averaging nearly one goal per game with Galatasaray, Osimhen has already lifted league titles in both Italy with Napoli and Turkey.
In this edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, Osimhen has recorded three goals and one assist and is expected to start once again as Nigeria’s reference point in attack.
Other Players to Watch
Beyond the headline names, the match could also be influenced by players such as Alex Iwobi (Fulham), Ibrahim Maza (Bayer Leverkusen), Aït-Nouri (Manchester City) and Bensebaini (Borussia Dortmund), who add quality and balance across the pitch.
Probable Lineups for Algeria vs Nigeria
Algeria:
Luca Zidane; Belghali, Mandi, Bensebaini, Aït-Nouri; Bennacer, Boudaoui; Mahrez, Chaïbi, Ibrahim Maza; Amora.
Nigeria:
Nwabali; Osayi-Samuel, Bassey, Ajayi, Onyemaechi; Iwobi, Ndidi, Onyeka; Lookman, Akor Adams; Osimhen.
Africa Cup of Nations Quarter-Finals Overview
Senegal were the first team to reach the semi-finals after defeating Mali 1–0. Morocco, the tournament hosts, also advanced with a 2–0 win over Cameroon. The final semi-final spot will be decided later this Saturday (10), when Egypt face Ivory Coast at 7:00 PM (UK time).
