Algeria forward Ibrahim Maza has reflected on Riyad Mahrez’s stoppage‑time free-kick against Nigeria in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, ahead of his team’s quarter-final clash with the Super Eagles.

The Bayern Leverkusen forward spoke about the upcoming quarter-final game against Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of such encounters in Algeria’s continental campaigns.

Maza recalled the iconic free-kick from six years ago, which continues to resonate with fans and players. “I was still young and watching the game on TV with my family to be honest. Yet a Legendary goal in the history of Algeria,” he said, reflecting on the moment that secured Algeria’s passage to the 2019 final.

The match in 2019 had been evenly poised, with both teams locked at 1-1 as full time approached.

With the game seemingly heading to extra time, Mahrez delivered a stunning free-kick in the 95th minute, finding the top-left corner of the net to send Algeria into the final with a 2-1 victory.

That strike has since become one of the defining moments in Algerian football history.

Looking ahead to the current Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, Algeria will once again face Nigeria, this time in the quarter-final stage.

The Super Eagles have been enjoying a flawless campaign in the tournament, and a win against the Desert Foxes would secure their place in the semi-final.

Wale Adejumo