Algeria defender Zinedine Belaid has said that his outfit will strive to deliver a great performance against Nigeria in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Morocco.
The North African football heavyweights narrowly triumphed over DR Congo to set up a tie against the Super Eagles, who made light work of Mozambique to a book a place in the quarterfinals.
The much-anticipated clash between Algeria and DR Congo travelled to extra-time after a pulsating goalless draw in regular time, with Adel Boulbina’s rocket shot strike in the 118th-minute securing victory for the North African country over the Leopards.
However, the enterprising defender has vowed a great performance against the Super Eagles as they seeks to secure a place in the semifinals of the tournament.
“We will face a very strong Nigerian team, but from our side, we are not focusing as much on the opponent as we are focusing on our own performance. We will strive to put on a great performance in order to continue the journey, and we must remain focused until the end.”
“I always give my all to contribute on the pitch when I have the opportunity, and I hope to live up to expectations whenever I am relied upon.”
Algeria will lock horns with the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the Marrakech Stadium on January 10, 2026, with both teams seeking for a win to secure a place in the semifinals of the tournament.
The last encounter between Algeria and Nigeria dates back to the semi-finals of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, during which the Greens achieved victory by two goals to one. Algeria went ahead to secure the title for the second time in their history during the 2019 tournament.
