AFCON 2025: Algeria Star Set To Miss Nigeria Clash

AFCON 2025: Algeria Star Set To Miss Nigeria Clash

Sampson Adedeji

Algeria have been handed a major injury setback ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 quarter-final showdown against Nigeria, with star midfielder Ismaël Bennacer expected to miss the highly anticipated encounter, BSNSports.com.ng reports 

The AC Milan midfielder is currently awaiting the final results of medical examinations after suffering a hamstring injury during Algeria’s round of 16 victory over DR Congo. 

Bennacer was forced off in the second half of the tightly contested match after pulling up with discomfort, raising immediate concerns within the Algerian camp.

Although the Algerian Football Federation is yet to issue an official statement, early indications suggest the injury is serious enough to rule the 26-year-old out of the clash against the Super Eagles. 

Medical sources close to the team have hinted that Bennacer will require a period of rest, making his availability for the quarter-final extremely unlikely.

Bennacer has been a key figure for the Desert Foxes at the tournament, dictating play from midfield with his composure, ball distribution and tactical intelligence.

 His potential absence will be a significant blow to head coach Djamel Belmadi as Algeria prepare to face a Nigerian side brimming with confidence.

Nigeria secured their place in the quarter-finals with an emphatic 4-0 win over Mozambique, while Algeria edged past DR Congo 1-0 to set up the blockbuster tie.

The Super Eagles and the Desert Foxes are set to renew their fierce rivalry later this week, with Algeria now facing the prospect of doing so without one of their most influential players.