(DDM) – Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has officially unveiled Nigeria’s starting lineup for Saturday evening’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal clash against Algeria’s Desert Warriors.
DDM notes that the highly anticipated encounter will take place at the Marrakesh Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 17:00 hours Nigerian time.
The match is expected to test Nigeria’s title ambitions as the Super Eagles seek a place in the semifinals of the continent’s premier football tournament.
In goal, Stanley Nwabali retains his place between the posts as he continues his impressive run at the tournament.
The goalkeeper will be aiming to record his sixth career clean sheet at the Africa Cup of Nations, a feat that would further underline his growing importance to the team.
Nigeria’s defensive setup features a back four combining pace, strength, and experience.
Bright Osayi-Samuel starts at right-back, bringing energy and attacking width from deep positions.
Semi Ajayi partners Calvin Bassey at the heart of defence, a pairing trusted to contain Algeria’s attacking threats.
Bruno Onyemaechi completes the back line at left-back, offering balance and defensive discipline.
In midfield, Coach Chelle has opted for a robust and versatile trio to control the tempo of the game.
Team captain Wilfred Ndidi anchors the midfield, tasked with breaking up opposition play and shielding the defence.
Alex Iwobi provides creativity and ball progression from midfield, linking play between defence and attack.
Frank Onyeka completes the trio, adding energy, pressing intensity, and box-to-box presence.
Nigeria’s attacking setup reflects both firepower and tactical flexibility.
Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen leads the line, carrying the hopes of millions with his pace, physicality, and eye for goal.
Osimhen is flanked by Ademola Lookman, whose movement and finishing have been crucial throughout the tournament.
Akor Adams completes the attacking trio, offering strength, aerial presence, and the ability to stretch Algeria’s defence.
The Super Eagles bench also boasts significant quality, giving the technical crew multiple options as the game progresses.
Among the substitutes are Samuel Chukwueze, Chidera Ejuke, and Moses Simon, all capable of changing the game with pace and creativity.
Paul Onuachu provides an aerial option in attack, while Fisayo Dele-Bashiru offers additional midfield depth.
Francis Uzoho, Igoh Ogbu, and Raphael Onyedika are also available, ensuring balance across all departments.
The clash against Algeria is expected to be fiercely contested, given the long-standing rivalry between both African football giants.
Algeria’s Desert Warriors are known for their technical ability and resilience, making the quarterfinal a true test of Nigeria’s tactical discipline.
Victory for the Super Eagles would secure a semifinal showdown against tournament hosts Morocco.
That semifinal encounter is scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, and is expected to draw massive continental attention.
Nigerian fans across the world will be watching closely as the team attempts to take another decisive step toward continental glory.
The selected lineup signals Coach Chelle’s intent to combine defensive solidity with attacking aggression.
As kickoff approaches, expectations remain high that the Super Eagles can rise to the occasion and keep their AFCON dream alive.
Super Eagles starting XI vs Algeria:
Nwabali; Osayi-Samuel, Ajayi, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Ndidi, Onyeka, Iwobi; Lookman, Adams, Osimhen.