Paris FC forward Moses Simon has played down any talk of revenge as the Super Eagles prepare for their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 quarter-final clash with Algeria.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s tie at the Stade de Marrakech, the Nigerian winger made it clear that the Eagles are fully focused on winning, not looking back at past defeats, Footballrover reports.

Moses Simon leads Super Eagles unity message ahead of Algeria clash

Nigeria will be coming into this clash in strong form after a dominant 4-0 win over Mozambique, while Algeria edged past DR Congo 1-0 after extra time to book their place in the last eight.

Simon stressed that teamwork has been the driving force behind Nigeria’s impressive run so far.

He explained that success in the Super Eagles camp is built on unity and shared responsibility, not individual praise.

According to Simon, goals do not happen by chance. He noted that every player plays a role, from creating chances to finishing them, and that collective effort has helped the team function smoothly throughout the tournament.

Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman have been key figures for the Super Eagles, scoring three goals each at AFCON 2025.

Beyond their goals, Lookman has also provided four assists, while Osimhen has added one assist to his tally.

Moses Simon described both forwards as among the best players in Africa, pointing out that their individual awards reflect their quality.

However, the winger was quick to shift attention back to the group. He insisted that personal accolades mean little if the team does not succeed, adding that the players and coaching staff are all chasing the same goal.

“There’s no room to worry about who is the best individually. Osimhen and Lookman are among the very best players in Africa. They’ve earned that status by winning individual awards.

What truly matters is that the team succeeds. We see ourselves as one, and our only desire is to win,” Simon noted.

Super Eagles depth on display as Moses Simon dismisses revenge talk

The Eagles have also shown strong squad depth in the tournament. Raphael Onyedika has scored twice, while Akor Adams, Wilfred Ndidi, and Semi Ajayi have all found the net.

Addressing memories of Nigeria’s 2019 AFCON semi-final loss to Algeria, Moses Simon firmly rejected any revenge narrative.

He stated that the Eagles are not motivated by past results and have only one focus going into the quarter-final.

“Our focus isn’t on revenge. The only thing on our minds is winning,” he said.

On the other side, Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez admitted there is pressure back home for his team to deliver.

The former Manchester City star said both sides want to progress, but only the better team will reach the semi-finals.

Mahrez also hinted that this tournament could be his final AFCON appearance.

While he does not want to burden himself with expectations, the 34-year-old acknowledged that lifting the trophy would be a special way to finish.

“There is pressure at home for us to win the game. Obviously both teams want to go through but only the best team can, and I hope it’s us. I think this will be my last AFCON, I don’t want to pressure myself but it will be great to win the trophy for our country,” he said.

Mahrez has scored three goals in the competition so far but is yet to register an assist, with one player of the match award to his name.

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Last Updated on January 10, 2026 7:13 am by footballrover