AFCON 2019: ALGERIA VS NIGERIA, KEY FACTS AND PLAYERS TO WATCH.

Algeria in this years tournament looked great so far. Although they are yet to reach the finals of tournament, one might concluded that they have won the ultimate prize.

They have collected 9 points from group stages without conceding a goal in the process. The only goal they conceded in the tournament came in the game between Ivory Coast when the played 1-1 and went to extra time then won 4-3 on penalties.

Algeria have been very stubborn at their back allowing only 1 goal in their net. Their defensive set up is massive.

However, Nigeria have not badly performed in the tournament thus far.

They scooped 6 points from group stages. Their only upset in the competition was when they lost 2-0 to the tournament newbies Madagascar in the third group game.

Nigeria came back strongly in the round of 16 against Cameroon and defeated them 3-2 not forgetting Cameroon are the defending champions.

So far, Nigeria have conceded 5 goals in the tournament 4 more than Algeria.

Nigeria will be looking to win their 3rd AFCON trophy whiles Algeria will be seeking to win their second.

Let's see how the game unfolds today.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Algeria – Youcef Belaili

One of Algeria's form players at the AFCON, Belaili was particularly lively in the quarter-final against Ivory Coast. The attacker created five goal-scoring opportunities, more than anyone else on the pitch and has already proven himself to be decisive, having netted twice in the tournament.

Nigeria – Samuel Chukwueze

His goal in the 2-1 win over South Africa in the last round made 20-year-old Chukwueze the youngest goalscorer at the tournament. Possessing a dazzling combination of blistering pace and fine dribbling, the Villarreal star is an explosive talent and will surely be key if the Super Eagles are to get past Algeria.

KEY OPTA FACTS

- Algeria and Nigeria will face each other for the ninth time in the AFCON, becoming the most regular encounter in the competition for both teams. The record between them is perfectly balanced, with three wins apiece and two draws.

- Algeria will play their seventh AFCON semi-final, their first since 2010, having qualified only twice in their previous six. Three of their AFCON semis have gone to penalties (winning once in 1980 and losing in 1984 and 1988).

- Nigeria will play their 14th AFCON semi-final, more than any other team. However, the Super Eagles have qualified for the final only once in their past five semis. It was against Mali in 2013 (a 4-1 win).

- Algeria midfielder Adam Ounas has been involved in a goal every 30 minutes in this year's tournament (three goals, one assist in 121 minutes played), the best ratio in the competition.

- Nigeria midfielders Peter Etebo (46) and Wilfred Ndidi (41) have won possession more times than any other outfield players at the AFCON.