WAFCON 2024 Match Preview: Nigeria vs Algeria

It’s almost time for the knockout stages in Morocco, but the Super Falcons of Nigeria still have one more job to do in the group stage and it is against Algeria.

Nigeria are already through to the quarterfinals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after two wins – a 3-0 win over Tunisia and a close 1-0 win against Botswana.

But their final Group B match against Algeria on Sunday is still very important.

Winning this match would mean finishing top of the group, which could give Nigeria an easier opponent in the next round and keep them away from stronger teams in Groups A or C.

A third win in a row would also boost team morale and remind everyone why Nigeria are favourites to win the tournament.

Algeria Aiming to Make History

Algeria have never reached the WAFCON quarterfinals, but this year might be different.

They’ve surprised many people with a 1-0 win against Botswana and a 0-0 draw with Tunisia. That gives them four points and no goals conceded — their best group stage performance ever.

If Algeria manage to get a draw on Sunday, they will likely go through. A win would be a massive achievement and a shock to the rest of Africa.

Head-to-Head: Nigeria Dominate

Nigeria have always had the upper hand against Algeria.

In the past, Nigeria beat them 4-0 in 2004 and 6-0 in 2006 — both years when Nigeria went on to win the tournament.

Even more recently, in October 2024, the teams played two friendly matches in Nigeria. The Super Falcons won both — 2-0 and 4-1.

In those games, Rasheedat Ajibade and Folashade Ijamilusi were the stars, scoring most of Nigeria’s goals.

In total, Nigeria have scored 16 goals against Algeria in their last four meetings, and only let in one.

Team News

Since Nigeria have already qualified, coach Justin Madugu is expected to rest some key players.

• Chinwendu Ihezuo, who scored the winner against Botswana, is likely to start ahead of star striker Asisat Oshoala.

• Folashade Ijamilusi, who scored a hat-trick against Algeria last year, could start her first game at the tournament.

• Midfielders Jennifer Echegini and Christy Ucheibe may also come into the starting line-up.

• Chioma Okafor could make her tournament debut from the bench.

Deborah Abiodun is suspended after two yellow cards, so changes in midfield are necessary.

Veteran Francisca Ordega is also expected to play after being rested in the earlier matches.

Nigeria’s Predicted Starting Line-Up (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper: Chiamaka Nnadozie
Defenders: Oladipo, Demehin, Ohale, Plumptre
Midfielders: Ucheibe, Ayinde, Echegini
Forwards: Okoronkwo, Ihezuo, Ijamilusi

Match Details

• Fixture: Nigeria vs Algeria

• Tournament: 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Group B)

• Venue: Stade Moulay Hassan, Rabat, Morocco

• Date: Sunday, 13 July 2025

• Kick-off: 8:00 pm (Nigerian time)

Match Prediction

Nigeria are favourites based on their form, experience, and strong squad. But Algeria have been solid in defence and are hungry to make history.

It may not be an easy match, but Nigeria’s quality and experience should help them get the win.

Prediction: Nigeria 3-0 Algeria