Line-ups, statistics and preview of the CAN quarter-final

Nigeria have arguably been the most impressive team so far at the Africa Cup of Nations, qualifying for the last eight, winning all four matches and scoring 12 goals in the process.

So one would assume they would approach tomorrow’s clash against Algeria with confidence and their minds fully focused on securing a place in the semi-finals? This is not the case. Nigeria, as has often been the case in recent years, have been mired in off-field problems with a dispute over bonuses prompting players to threaten to boycott the Algeria match.

The problem stemmed from the late payment of guaranteed sums for winning group stage matches, which meant the team was considering leaving the tournament in protest.

The players have now been paid and the team has arrived in Marrakech before the match.

“All group stage bonuses have been fully released and passed the required regulatory stages,” said Minister of State for Finance Doris Uzoka-Anite. “There will be no more administrative delays.”

Coach Eric Chelle also had to deal with a disagreement between two of his star players – Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.

Osimhen made his irritation clear with Lookman for failing to pass to him during the 4-0 win over Mozambique on Monday, leading to an on-field confrontation that left his teammates and opposition full-back Reinildo having to sort it out. Osimhen indicated he wanted to come out immediately, a request duly granted, and he went straight into the tunnel at the final whistle.

The Nigerian camp claims the two have since settled their grievances, but this undoubtedly adds another unwanted problem for the beleaguered Chelle to resolve.

Algerian goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of French legend Zinedine, tries to stop the powerful Nigerian attack.

The 27-year-old kept a clean sheet in each of the three matches he played while his father watched from the stands.

Team news for Algeria vs Nigeria

Algeria has doubts about midfielder Ismael Bennacer, who was released in the round of 16 against DR Congo. Jaouen Hadjam could return.

Nigeria have an in-form squad to choose from and will likely retain the same team that beat Mozambique.

Lineup planned for the Algeria-Nigeria match

Algeria: Zidane; Belghali, Mandi, Bensebaini, Aït Nouri; Boudaoui, Zerrouki, Chaibi; Mahrez, Amoura, Maza

Nigeria: Nwabali; Osayi-Samuel, Ajayi, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Onyeka, Nidi, Iwobi; Lookman; Osimhen, Adams

How to watch Algeria vs Nigeria: TV and online streams

Kick-off on Saturday will be at 4pm UK time. In the UK, live CAN 2025 coverage is on Channel 4’s 4seven, All 4 and YouTube channels. In the USA, beIN Sports is the tournament broadcaster.

Online live streaming is available on a wide range of devices via Channel 4 website and the beIN Sports app and app.

Statistics for Algeria vs Nigeria

• Algeria have exited at this stage in four of their last six AFCON knockout matches.
• Nigeria has reached at least the semi-finals in 15 of its 20 previous CAN appearances.
• Nigeria are winless in their last four meetings against Algeria

Algeria are strong defensively and this could be a straight battle between their back four and players like Osimhen and Lookman.

We want Nigeria to get the job done – provided their claims about restoring team unity are correct.

Bet here

What to do if you have a gambling problem

We understand that gambling can be fun, but it is always important to play responsibly. If you have a gaming problem, don’t hesitate to ask for help. There are people who can help you get on the road to recovery. Below, we’ve listed some helpful resources to help you on your road to recovery.