The stage is set for a thrilling Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final showdown in Morocco, where Nigeria’s lethal forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman are poised to test the perfect record of Algeria’s standout goalkeeper, Luca Zidane.

Son of French football legend Zinedine Zidane, Luca has been one of the revelations of AFCON 2025. The 27-year-old is the only first-choice goalkeeper among the quarter-finalists yet to concede a goal, keeping clean sheets against Sudan, Burkina Faso, and DR Congo. However, his toughest challenge awaits in Marrakesh on Saturday, as he comes up against Nigeria’s in-form attack.

Osimhen and Lookman, both former African Player of the Year winners, have been devastating throughout the tournament, scoring three goals apiece and leading Nigeria to become the competition’s top scorers with 12 goals. Alongside Akor Adams, they form one of the most feared attacking trios in African football.

Zidane’s AFCON journey has been just as compelling. Born in France, eligible for France, Spain, and Algeria, he chose to represent the Desert Foxes and made his debut only recently in a 2026 World Cup qualifier against Uganda. With first-choice keeper Alexis Guendouzi sidelined by injury, Zidane seized his opportunity and has not looked back.

Supported in the stands by his famous father, mother, and brother, Zidane has embraced the spotlight with calm assurance.
“It is special when your family come to watch,” he said.
“I am proud to represent Algeria and play in the Africa Cup of Nations. It is a great experience. I try to be myself and build my career step by step.”

Beyond Algeria versus Nigeria, AFCON 2025’s quarter-finals promise elite clashes across the board, with seven former champions among the final eight—each ranked inside Africa’s top 10.

In Mali vs Senegal, Mali continue their unlikely run despite failing to win a match in regulation time. Belgian coach Tom Saintfiet hailed his players as “national heroes” after they eliminated Tunisia on penalties, playing most of the match with 10 men. Senegal, meanwhile, welcome back defensive leader Kalidou Koulibaly and rely on the experience of Sadio Mané, Edouard Mendy, and Idrissa Gueye, alongside exciting teenager Ibrahim Mbaye.

The Cameroon vs Morocco tie revives old memories. Cameroon have never lost to Morocco at AFCON and boast a strong historical record, but the hosts enter as favourites. With Achraf Hakimi fit again and Brahim Díaz scoring in every match so far, the Atlas Lions will be confident of breaking the curse.

In Egypt vs Ivory Coast, history favours the Pharaohs. Egypt have dominated this fixture at AFCON, winning seven of 11 meetings. Yet Ivory Coast arrive full of belief after a commanding 3–0 win over Burkina Faso, inspired by Manchester United winger Amad Diallo. Egypt, on the other hand, needed extra time and a decisive Mohamed Salah goal to overcome Benin. Having conquered club football, Salah is still chasing his first AFCON title after two final defeats.

As AFCON 2025 enters its defining phase, the quarter-finals promise drama, history, and heavyweight battles—none bigger than the clash between Nigeria’s firepower and Algeria’s unbreached last line of defence.