The Super Eagles of Nigeria have touched down at the Marrakech Menara Airport this evening, Thursday, 8 January 2026, as they shift their base for the highly anticipated AFCON 2025 Quarter-Final clash against the Fennec Foxes of Algeria.
Following their dominant 4–0 victory over Mozambique in Fez earlier this week, the team travelled via a chartered flight provided by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to begin final preparations for Saturday’s “heavyweight” encounter.
Despite the viral on-pitch spat between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman during the last match, the atmosphere at the team’s luxury resort in Marrakech was described as “serene and professional” by traveling officials.
The Truce: Head Coach Éric Sékou Chelle reportedly held a “peace meeting” on the flight. Sources say Osimhen and Lookman were seen joking during disembarkation, signaling that the “bad blood” has been put to rest.
Injury Update: The medical team confirmed that Wilfred Ndidi, who took a slight knock to the ankle against Mozambique, participated in light recovery drills this evening. He is expected to be fit for the starting XI on Saturday.
The “Blackout” Continues: Coach Chelle has maintained his strict media blackout, allowing no interviews at the airport to ensure the players remain insulated from the mounting pressure back home.
Saturday’s match is a repeat of the 2019 semi-final, with both sides boasting some of the best offensive stats in the tournament:
The match will take place at the Grand Stade de Marrakech, a stadium where Nigeria has a favorable history, including a famous 10–0 win over São Tomé and Príncipe in 2022.
The NFF has confirmed that over 5,000 Nigerian supporters are expected to travel from nearby Casablanca and Rabat to provide a “home atmosphere” for the Super Eagles.
While the team is settled, the debate in Nigeria remains focused on whether Victor Osimhen should start or be benched for his “undisciplined” outburst. However, with 3 goals in the tournament so far, most analysts believe Chelle cannot afford to drop Africa’s top striker against a defense as disciplined as Algeria’s.
“Marrakech has been a lucky ground for us. The boys look sharp, and the distraction of the Mozambique game is behind them. Now it’s about tactical discipline.” – Super Eagles Media Officer.
