Equatorial Guinea vs Algeria – Equatorial Guinea is just one step away from securing their place at the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), and they’ll be looking to make that final leap when they host Algeria at the Nuevo Estadio de Malabo on Thursday afternoon. Meanwhile, Algeria has already secured their spot in next year’s tournament in Morocco, having won all four games in the qualifiers and demonstrating impressive form. This encounter promises to be a thrilling clash of motivations, with Equatorial Guinea fighting for qualification and Algeria aiming to maintain their perfect record.

Match Details

Date: Thursday, November 14, 2024
Time: 16:00 CAT
Broadcast: SABC Sport, SABC Plus

Previous Head-to-Head

These two sides have crossed paths twice recently, each winning a match. Equatorial Guinea stunned Algeria with a 1-0 win during the 2021 AFCON, a result that surprised many and showcased their grit. However, Algeria returned the favor in September’s qualifier, defeating the Nzalang Nacional 2-0 at home. Both teams will be looking to come out on top this time, but with Equatorial Guinea holding the home advantage, it could be a closely contested game.

Recent Form

Equatorial Guinea:
Equatorial Guinea heads into this game on a high, having won back-to-back games against Liberia last month. They earned a 1-0 victory at home and then achieved a hard-fought 2-1 away win with a stoppage-time goal from Dorian Hanza. Now second in Group E with seven points, Equatorial Guinea has built momentum and is determined to secure qualification with another win.

AFCON Qualifying Form: LDWW
Overall Form: LWLDWW

Algeria:
Algeria has been unstoppable in the qualifiers, maintaining a flawless record with four wins, 11 goals scored, and only one goal conceded. Their recent doubleheader against Togo saw them secure a dominant 5-1 win at home followed by a 1-0 victory away, confirming their spot in the 2025 AFCON. Les Fennecs will aim to carry this momentum into Thursday’s match and maintain their unbeaten streak.

AFCON Qualifying Form: WWWW
Overall Form: LWWWWW

Players to Watch

Equatorial Guinea
With key player Emilio Nsue still suspended, Equatorial Guinea will rely on other influential players like Luis Nlavo, who scored against Liberia, and midfield general Iban Salvador. Nlavo’s presence in the box and Salvador’s playmaking abilities will be vital if Equatorial Guinea is to challenge Algeria’s solid defense.

Algeria
Algeria’s squad is packed with talent, including returning stars Fares Chaibi from Eintracht Frankfurt and Bashir Belloumi from Hull City. Rising star Amin Chiakha, an 18-year-old forward from Copenhagen, has also been called up, adding youthful energy to the team. Riyad Mahrez, Algeria’s captain and key playmaker, will be one to watch as he looks to lead his side to another victory.

Current Injuries

Equatorial Guinea: Emilio Nsue (suspended)
Algeria: No reported injuries

Betting Odds

Outcome	Odds
Equatorial Guinea Win	4.00
Draw	3.20
Algeria Win	1.90
Both Teams to Score – Yes	2.30
Over 2.5 Goals	2.40
Under 2.5 Goals	1.60
Riyad Mahrez to Score	2.50
Luis Nlavo to Score	3.20
Draw at Half-Time	1.85

Betting Odds

Betting Tips

This game holds higher stakes for Equatorial Guinea, and they are likely to come out with high energy and determination. Algeria’s defensive strength, however, could make it difficult for the hosts to find the back of the net easily. A cautious approach from both sides could lead to a low-scoring affair, making Under 2.5 Goals a solid bet. Additionally, with Mahrez leading Algeria’s offense, betting on him to score could also be rewarding.

Equatorial Guinea vs Algeria Prediction Breakdown

Goal Prediction: Under 2.5 goals
Key Scorer Prediction: Riyad Mahrez (Algeria)
Possible Outcome: Draw
Equatorial Guinea 1-1 Algeria

Predicted Starting Line-ups

Equatorial Guinea:
Owono; Akapo, Fernandez, Anieboh, Ndong; Obiang, Ganet; Pepin, Eneme, Salvador; Nlavo

Algeria:
Guendouz; Mandi, Tougai, Bensebaini, Ait-Nouri; Maza, Abdelli, Zerrouki; Amoura, Gouiri, Benzia

Conclusion

With much at stake in the Equatorial Guinea vs Algeria match-high intensity is expected, hoping to secure a result that would take them to Morocco. While Algeria has already qualified, they will be keen to maintain their unbeaten record. A draw seems likely, as both sides will likely prioritize defensive solidity over taking risks.