“I like these kind of matches” – Algeria coach Petkovic confident ahead of AFCON 2025 QF date with Nigeria

Algeria head coach Vladimir Petkovic has expressed his eagerness to face Nigeria in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.

​The Super Eagles of Nigeria secured their spot in the quarterfinals after a dominant 4-0 victory over Mozambique on Monday.

However, they had to wait until Tuesday to discover their opponents as Algeria took on DR Congo in a grueling encounter.

The match pushed into extra time, but Petkovic's men secured the win at the death, courtesy of a 117th-minute strike from Adil Boulbina.

​The stage is now set for a heavyweight quarterfinal clash between Algeria and Nigeria at the prestigious Stade de Marrakech this Saturday.

​The match promises to be one of the tournament's most interesting encounters, as both sides have been among the best performers in Morocco.

Both teams finished at the top of their respective groups and have maintained high standards throughout the competition.

​Statistically, this is a battle of contrasting strengths: the Super Eagles boast the tournament's most prolific attack, having scored 12 goals in four games, while Algeria possesses the finest defense, having conceded just once so far.

​Nigeria may hold a slight physical advantage, having played a day earlier than their opponents.

Also, the Fennec Foxes' 120-minute battle against DR Congo could impact their fitness levels heading into Saturday.

Nonetheless, Coach Petkovic remains confident in his squad and insists they are ready to take on the Super Eagles.

“We will start preparing for the match against Nigeria right now by focusing on our strengths,” Petkovic said, per foot-africa.

“I like these kinds of matches because they demand hard work and intensity against teams that are aiming for the title.”

Algeria vs Nigeria: Will Lightning Strike Again?

The last time Nigeria and Algeria met at the Africa Cup or Nations was the 2019 edition, when a late Riyah Mahrez sealed the result.

Last time we faced Algeria in 2019, Mahrez happened.

The revenge is NOW, Super Eagles.#TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 pic.twitter.com/42SQZtIVU2

— Chris Emenyonu (@Krizbaba22) January 6, 2026

Both teams matched each other for quality on the night, but Mahrez's quality made the difference in the end.

However, a lot has happened since then, both teams have also changed in terms of players and coaches.

As it is, it is difficult to separate both teams, albeit Nigeria has the better quality players on paper. It is difficult to pinpoint who will emerge victorious, but Super Eagles fans will be hoping that their team runs out with the the win on Saturday.