Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has said his team is fully focused on securing victory when Nigeria face Algeria in Saturday’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) clash at the Grand Stade de Marrakech. Kick-off is 5pm.
Chelle stressed that mindset and unity will be key as the Super Eagles prepare to face a strong Algerian side.
“It’s crucial for me to maintain focus on the pitch. While energy matters, the mindset is paramount. Our group will remain united,” Chelle said.
“This match is critical against a formidable opponent. We are still working on our game plan. I have great respect for the Algerian team and their very professional staff. I’m not thinking about revenge for 2019. My focus is to compete strongly and secure qualification.”
Algeria defeated Nigeria in their last AFCON meeting, a dramatic 2019 semi-final in Cairo. Riyad Mahrez scored a late free-kick winner in added time, leaving the then goalkeeper, Daniel Akpeyi helpless.
Algeria coach Vladimir Petković is also confident his side can continue their strong run against the Super Eagles. Nigeria have not beaten the Fennecs since a 3-1 win in a 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, in November 2016.
“For us, the most important thing is the state of mind. Everything starts there, and in that aspect, we are very solid,” Petković said.
“We have reliability and quality. Tomorrow, we must be strong both defensively and offensively. Details will matter against Nigeria, and nothing must be left to chance. We believe in ourselves and we must play a big game.”
Saturday’s encounter will be the 25th senior international meeting between both nations. Algeria have won 10 matches, Nigeria have recorded nine wins in regulation time, while five games ended in draws. One of those draws came at the 1988 AFCON semi-final in Morocco, where Nigeria won 9-8 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
In that memorable match, a powerful shot from the late Samuel Okwaraji was deflected into the net by defender Abderrazak Belgherbi to give Nigeria the lead. Algeria equalised late through Rachid Maatar, but the Super Eagles triumphed in the shootout when the late Peter Rufai saved a decisive kick from Lakhdar Belloumi.
