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Nigeria vs Algeria: A Rivalry Forged in AFCON Drama
9 Jan
Summary
- Nigeria and Algeria have met 22 times since 1965, with 10 AFCON encounters.
- Their 1988 AFCON semifinal featured an epic penalty shootout won by Nigeria.
- Algeria secured their first AFCON title against Nigeria in 1990.
The Africa Cup of Nations has been the stage for a historic football rivalry between Nigeria and Algeria, with 22 matches played since 1965. Their encounters are rich with drama, including a memorable 1988 AFCON semifinal that culminated in a tense penalty shootout, ultimately decided by Nigeria's goalkeeping heroics.
Algeria claimed their maiden AFCON title on home soil in 1990, defeating Nigeria in the final just two weeks after a resounding 5-1 victory in their opening group match. These contests have consistently delivered thrilling football, showcasing star players and memorable comebacks.
The rivalry's tapestry includes a famous 1980 final where Nigeria, on home ground, secured their first AFCON trophy with a dominant performance. Most recently, in 2019, Algeria secured a dramatic victory with a stunning free-kick in injury time, adding another chapter to this storied African football feud.
