Algerian captain and football star Riyad Mahrez has made a candid admission about the Nigerian national team's strength just hours before their high-stakes quarterfinal clash at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Mahrez's Candid Admission on Super Eagles' Threat
The Manchester City legend did not mince words when discussing the threat posed by the Super Eagles, who are chasing a record-extending fourth AFCON title. In a statement that has gone viral on social media platform X, the 34-year-old winger confessed to feeling apprehensive about facing Nigeria's formidable attack.
"I'm afraid. They have scored a lot of goals in this competition," Mahrez was quoted as saying by Afrik Foot. He elaborated, acknowledging the pressure on his team, the Desert Foxes, to perform in the match scheduled for Saturday, January 10, in Marrakesh, Morocco.
A Rivalry Renewed After Six Years
This quarterfinal marks the first meeting between the two football powerhouses at the AFCON since their epic encounter six years ago at the 2019 tournament. That match is etched in memory, with Mahrez playing the hero's role by scoring a dramatic late free-kick to seal a crucial 2-1 victory for Algeria.
Both teams enter this clash in impeccable form, having won all four of their matches so far in the competition, making them the only unbeaten sides left in their bracket. Mahrez himself is in fine scoring touch, having already netted three goals in Morocco, including a brace against Sudan and a penalty against Burkina Faso.
Respect for a 'Strong Team' with 'Big Players'
Despite the underlying fear, Mahrez expressed immense respect and excitement for the challenge. The five-time Premier League and UEFA Champions League winner called Nigeria "one of the best teams" at the tournament.
"I am so happy to play at this stage again and to play against this type of team that has big players," Mahrez stated. He emphasized the spectacle awaiting fans, adding, "I am looking forward to the game tomorrow because I know it is going to be a game to watch."
He reiterated the quality of the Nigerian side, noting, "They have a very good attack. We can't deny it." However, the seasoned captain concluded with a show of resolve, declaring, "Tomorrow will be tomorrow. But I'm not afraid," setting the stage for a tactical and emotional battle.
The backdrop to the match also includes off-pitch drama, as the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has submitted a formal petition to the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The FAF's grievance centers on concerns over the ticketing arrangements for the highly anticipated encounter, adding another layer of intrigue to an already explosive fixture.
