AFCON 2025: Super Eagles players barred from interviews ahead of Algeria clash

AFCON 2025: Super Eagles players barred from interviews ahead of Algeria clash

Super Eagles players have been barred from speaking with journalists during their open training session on Thursday ahead of Nigeria’s quarter-final clash against Algeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Nigeria and Algeria are set for a blockbuster encounter on Saturday at the 45,000-capacity Grand Stade de Marrakech, with both teams arriving in the host city on Thursday afternoon.

The Super Eagles travelled from their initial base in Fès, while the Desert Warriors made the journey from Rabat.

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Nigeria head into the tie as the tournament’s most clinical side, having scored 12 goals in four matches. Algeria have also impressed offensively, netting eight times, including 3–0 victories over Sudan and Equatorial Guinea.

While the Super Eagles dispatched Mozambique comfortably in the Round of 16, the Fennecs needed a dramatic extra-time strike from Adil Boulbina to eliminate the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The restriction on media interaction was confirmed by the team’s media officer, Promise Efoghe, who said journalists would only be granted 15 minutes of access to observe training.

Efoghe explained that the decision followed developments over the past few days, including the bonus dispute that contributed to the team’s delayed arrival in Marrakech.

“Interactions with the players earlier scheduled for today have been called off in the wake of recent developments, including the late arrival time to Marrakech,” Efoghe said.

“I urge us to respect the decision of the players not to speak at this time.”

The Super Eagles will now focus fully on preparations for Saturday’s quarter-final against the Desert Foxes, with a place in the AFCON semi-finals at stake.

Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.

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