Algeria once again proved to be Nigeria’s toughest opponent at the Africa Cup of Nations, extending a long-running trend that has now lasted 34 years in the competition.
The latest reminder came in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, when Algeria edged Nigeria 2-1 in the semi-finals on 14 July 2019, booking their place in the final. That match was decided late on, with Riyad Mahrez scoring a famous stoppage-time free-kick to send the Desert Foxes through.
The result also underlined an established pattern between the two sides at AFCON. Algeria have continued to avoid defeat against Nigeria when it matters most on the continental stage, keeping a record that stretches back more than three decades.
It is a hoodoo Nigeria have struggled to shake in Africa’s biggest tournament, as Algeria have repeatedly found a way to come out on top or at least deny the Super Eagles in key meetings.
With the rivalry frequently shaping big moments in the competition, Algeria’s ability to maintain this edge remains one of the standout long-term stories in the Africa Cup of Nations.
