Equatorial Guinea & Algeria set-up mouthwatering Group E encounter

Yesterday at 08:14 AM

Equatorial Guinea will hope to book their spot at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations competition this week as they prepare to do battle with Algeria in Group E at Nuevo Estadio de Malabo on Thursday afternoon. Kick-off is at 3:00pm CAT.

The Dessert Warriors boast a perfect record in their 2025 AFCON qualifying bid, after picking up four wins from four matches in Group E so far.

As a result of their scintillating form, Algeria are one of seven teams that have already booked their spot at the Morocco showpiece while Equatorial Guinea will hope to follow suit.

National Thunder currently sit in 2nd spot in Group E after accumulating seven points in four matches played so far. Victory over Algeria will see Equatorial Guinea secure their spot in next year's edition of the competition.

The Algerian Football Association confirmed that they will be without Hull City forward Bachir Belloumi and Hertha BSC attacker Ibrahim Maza for their upcoming tie.

"The Algeria national team has just arrived in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, for the AFCON2025 qualifier against the Nzalang Nacional on Sunday," the Algerian FA reported on Tuesday.

"The Desert Foxes made the trip without two players who are injured: Bachir Belloumi and Ibrahim Maza."

Equatorial Guinea: Luis Nlavo – With Emilio Nsue hit with a six-month ban following the last AFCON tournament, Nlavo had big shoes to fill during the 2025 AFCON qualifying phase. The 21-year-old managed to get his name on the scoresheet during Equatorial Guinea's 1-0 win against Liberia last time out and will no doubt look to impress this week again.

Algeria: Fares Chaibi – Based with Eintracht Frankfurt at club level, Chaibi has been in fine form during the 2024/25 season. With Algeria known for playing a fast-paced brand of football, Chaibi will be crucial in driving the ball up field from deep positions in midfield.

Matches – 2

Equatorial Guinea wins – 1

Algeria wins – 1

Draws – 0