Algeria legend Riyad Mahrez has warned that 'anything is possible' when his side face Nigeria in Saturday’s Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal clash, reviving memories of his dramatic last-minute free-kick that knocked the Super Eagles out of the 2019 tournament.

The Greens set up a meeting with the Super Eagles following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo, thanks to substitute Adil Boulbina's goal in extra time.

Mahrez has scored in each of his last two matches against Nigeria, including his decisive strike that earned Algeria a 2-1 win over the Super Eagles in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations semifinal.

With extra time on the horizon, the tricky Algeria winger conjured a beautifully curled free-kick from the edge of the box in the fifth minute of stoppage time. 

The goal has since become part of Africa Cup of Nations folklore and remains one of the most agonizing moments for Super Eagles supporters.

Speaking to journalists in the mixed zone after Algeria's win over the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mahrez said: "Nigeria? We know them well, the match won't be easy. Another last-minute free kick? We'll see, anything is possible."

Nigeria secured qualification for the quarterfinals of the Afcon, with the formidable front three of Victor Osimhen, who struck twice, Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams all finding the back of the net.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel