AFCON 2025: We know Super Eagles well — Mahrez not scared of Osimhen, Lookman

Nigeria's Super Eagles take on Algeria in a huge blockbuster, which serves as a rematch of the 2019 AFCON semi-final.

On that night in Cairo, Mahrez broke Nigerian hearts with a dramatic, 95th-minute free-kick that snatched a 2-1 victory for Algeria, propelling them to their second continental title.

Speaking after Algeria’s hard-fought 1–0 victory over DR Congo in the Round of 16, secured by a late Adil Boulbina strike in extra time, the former Manchester City winger acknowledged the threat posed by the three-time champions.

“Nigeria? We know them well, the match won’t be easy,” Mahrez told reporters.

“Another last-minute free kick? We will see, anything is possible.”

Both teams enter the quarter-final in formidable form. Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been the tournament's most clinical side, sweeping aside Mozambique 4–0 in their last outing to maintain a 100% winning record in Morocco.

Meanwhile, Algeria have shown immense defensive resilience, navigating a tough path through the group stages and a physical encounter with the Leopards to reach the final eight.

The mouthwatering tie will take place on Saturday, January 10, in Marrakech.

With Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen leading the line for Nigeria, Eric Chelle's men are considered slight favourites.

However, Algeria will be led by an inspired Mahrez, who already has three goals in this tournament, setting the stage for a blockbuster.