ALGERIA captain Riyad Mahrez has insisted that he and his teammates are not intimidated as they prepare to battle the Super Eagles of Nigeria in today’s Morocco 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final clash in Marrakesh.
The free-scoring Super Eagles have scored 12 goals in their four matches in Morocco so far, including a 4-0 demolition of Mozambique in their round of 16 encounter.
However, Algeria boast the joint-best defence in the tournament, conceding just one goal in four games.
“They have scored a lot of goals,” Mahrez noted yesterday as he spoke about the Super Eagles.
“They have a very good attack. We can’t deny it. Tomorrow will be tomorrow. But I’m not afraid “
Mahrez scored a late winner the last time Algeria met Nigeria, in the semi-finals of the 2019 AFCON, as the Fennecs went on to clinch the trophy in Egypt.
The former Manchester City forward admitted that Algerian fans are expecting a repeat of the 2019 feat after disappointing outings at the last two AFCON editions.
He said: “There is pressure to win at home. Both teams are aiming to qualify, and we are both strong sides.
“We must do everything possible to perform at our best, and we are ready to give our all for our country.”
The Al-Ahli of Saudi Arabia forward will be 35 years old in February, and is hoping to win another AFCON title before quitting.
“This will be my last AFCON,” he announced. “I want to lift the trophy once more with this generation.”
The quarter-final clash in Marrakesh kicks off at 5pm Nigerian time.