Super Eagles head coach Eric Sékou Chelle has insisted that Nigeria have put every distraction behind them and are fully focused on securing victory against Algeria national football team in Saturday’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final encounter.
The high-profile clash against the Fennecs will take place at the Grand Stade de Marrakech, Morocco’s fourth-largest city, with kick-off scheduled for 5pm.
“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 in the process of determining our game-plan. I hold a deep respect for this Algerian team; their staff operates with exceptional professionalism. I’m not dwelling on revenge for 2019. My priority is to compete fiercely and secure qualification.”
Algeria edged Nigeria in their last AFCON meeting — a dramatic 2019 semi-final in Cairo decided by a late free-kick from Riyad Mahrez. However, the Super Eagles last defeated Algeria in a competitive fixture during a 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Uyo.
On his part, Algeria coach Vladimir Petković expressed confidence in his side’s ability to extend their positive run against Nigeria.
“The most important thing is the state of mind. It all starts from there. We have the reliability and the quality,” Petković said.
“Tomorrow, we need to be just as good defensively as offensively. All the details will matter against Nigeria. Nothing should be left to chance.”
Saturday’s match will be the 25th senior-level meeting between both teams. Algeria have recorded 10 wins, Nigeria nine victories, while five encounters ended in draws. Nigeria famously won one of those drawn games on penalties — the dramatic 1988 AFCON semi-final in Morocco.
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