Algeria vs Nigeria: Zidane's insane form set to stop Lookman and Osimhen’s AFCON dream

Algeria’s journey at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 has been built on defensive steel, and at its heart stands goalkeeper Luca Zidane.

The 27-year-old shot-stopper delivered another incredible performance in the Round of 16, where he made two important saves to deny DR Congo and seal a hard-fought 1–0 extra-time victory.

Zidane’s heroics ensured Algeria’s advancement to the quarterfinals and extended his remarkable record at the tournament: three clean sheets in three appearances.

This makes him the only goalkeeper yet to concede a goal at AFCON 2025.

Since switching his international allegiance to Algeria in September 2025, the son of French football legend Zinedine Zidane has announced himself in African football with heroic moments.

He kept clean sheets in Algeria’s group-stage victories over Sudan (3–0) and Burkina Faso (1–0) before being rested for the final group match.

Returning for the knockout clash against DR Congo, Zidane showcased authority and frustrated a series of high-quality chances before Adil Boulbina’s extra-time winner.

Algeria will now face Nigeria in a blockbuster quarterfinal on January 10, 2026, at Stade de Marrakech, with Zidane’s form presenting a big challenge for the Super Eagles’ feared attacking duo.

Nigeria’s hopes rest heavily on former African players of the year, Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen, two of the most dangerous forwards in African football.

Lookman, the 2024 African Footballer of the Year, has been sensational at AFCON 2025, registering three goals and four assists, including a standout performance in Nigeria’s 4–0 Round of 16 win over Mozambique.

Alongside him, Osimhen has matched Lookman’s goal tally, scoring three times.

Despite Nigeria’s attacking firepower, beating Zidane has proven a near-impossible task. The Algerian goalkeeper has already denied multiple high-xGoal chances during the tournament.

Algeria have conceded just one goal across four matches and none in games where Zidane has featured.

While Lookman’s dribbling and creativity and Osimhen’s predatory instincts could create openings, Zidane’s tournament-leading save percentage suggests Nigeria may need patience and something special to find a breakthrough.

The quarterfinal clash also rekindles memories of the 2019 AFCON semifinal, where Algeria edged Nigeria 2–1 on their way to lifting the trophy.

For Nigeria’s stars, conquering Zidane could open the door to another deep AFCON run. But as the Algerian goalkeeper continues to honour his heritage with ice-cold performances, the Super Eagles may find their path blocked by an imposing wall in yellow.