DZWatch Exclusive: Today, the Algerian national team, Les Fennecs, face off against Nigeria in a highly anticipated quarter-final match of the Africa Cup of Nations. This encounter marks the 22nd official match between these two footballing powerhouses, adding another chapter to their storied rivalry.
The first meeting between Algeria and Nigeria dates back to 1973, during the All-Africa Games held in Lagos, a match that ended in a 2-2 draw. In the 21 official matches that followed, the balance of power has been remarkably even. Both Algeria and Nigeria have secured 8 victories each, with 5 matches ending in a draw. Nigeria holds a slight advantage in goal difference, having scored 29 goals compared to Algeria’s 25.
Historically, Algeria has been strong on home soil, winning 5 out of 8 matches against Nigeria played in Algeria. Conversely, Nigeria has dominated their home games, winning 5 out of 7 matches played in Nigeria. Neutral venues have seen a more balanced outcome, with each team winning twice and drawing twice.
In the Africa Cup of Nations, the two nations have clashed on nine occasions. Nigeria has the upper hand with 4 wins to Algeria’s 3, with 2 matches ending in a draw. These encounters span from the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations in Nigeria to the 2019 edition in Egypt, where Algeria clinched their second star.
Beyond the official matches, Algeria and Nigeria have also played two friendly games. Algeria emerged victorious in both, winning 1-0 in Austria in 2020 and 2-1 in Oran in 2022. These friendly victories give Les Fennecs a slight edge in the overall head-to-head record.
Today’s match promises to be another exciting chapter in the Algeria-Nigeria football saga. Football fans across the continent and beyond will be watching closely as these two teams battle for a place in the semi-finals.
