The Desert Foxes will be out to spoil Nigeria’s party but it remains to be seen the side that will come out on top after this tie.
With the match permutations and predictions going on ahead of this match, we take a look at the four key players to watch as both sides come up against each other.
Ismael Bennacer (Algeria)
The former Arsenal youngster will be on parade in Algeria’s midfield as expected. His job would be to hinder the work of Nigeria’s midfield duo Wilfred Ndidi and Oghenekaro Etebo while also launching an attack of their own in the game.
This promises to be a tough task for Bennacer . This is due to the depth of quality in the Nigerian midfield.
However, expect fireworks and mobility in the final third from the Arsenal talent as he’s proven many times for his side in this AFCON.
Wilfred Ndidi (Nigeria)
The Leicester City stalwart who was reportedly linked to a move to Manchester United would be a boss in the midfield pivot.
His presence is an advantage for his side in the middle of the park.
His pass proved to be instrumental in Nigeria’s win against South Africa as it found Ahmed Musa leading to the first goal.
His shield in front of the back four and accurate interceptions is needed as his side face former Leicester teammates Islam Slimani.
Riyad Mahrez (Algeria)
Mahrez would be expected to bring an attacking bearing to his side forward line in the AFCON semi-final clash.
That’s why his manager will be banking on his technical (dribbling) ability in the match.
His gameplay has lifted the Desert Foxes in the tournament so far, so expect the former Leicester star touted as the “King” by former Leicester boss Ranieri to provide the green light for his side in transition as the battle ensues against Nigeria.
Samuel Chukwueze (Nigeria)
The talented young Nigerian has been the revelation for the World and Africa particularly in the tournament.
He was exemplary against the South Africans in the quarter-finals as he got a debut goal to lift Nigeria to a 1-0 lead in the 27th minute.
Such was his impact as he picked the man of the match (MOTM) award ahead of big names like Ahmed Musa, Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi in the Nigerian set-up.
Much will be expected from him as Nigeria get ready for a cracker with Algeria.
Obiweluozo Martins
Photo Credit : cafonline.com
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