Prediction: Algeria vs Guinea

Prediction: Algeria win

Best Odds: 8/11

Bookmaker: bet365

The Africa Cup of Nations is into the knockout stages now, with the Round of 16 being set to get underway imminently. The tournament has had a few bright moments here and there, but for the most part, fans are still waiting for it to explode into life. One game in which they’re hoping to see that happen is Algeria vs Guinea, which is an encounter between two sides that have had very different tournaments up to this point. It’s not quite David vs Goliath, but there’s certainly a clear favourite here.

Algeria

Algeria have done a good job of flying the flag for Africa at the World Cup in recent times, and now, it’s time for them to really put their foot down and showcase what they can do within their own home continent. They’ve got a few star attractions within their ranks, but beyond that, they’re just really well organised. They have yet to concede a goal at the tournament so far, and they’re very concise about how they come forward. They’re dangerous, and pundits had better start recognising that.

Team News

Islam Slimani and Adam Ounas are expected to lead from the front for Algeria, who will restore their strongest XI into the first team after a rotation for their final group stage game.

Guinea

Guinea made an impact in African football way back in the 70s and 80s, but ever since then, they’ve been a little bit stagnant. We’re starting to see a bit of a revival in recent times with some star players making a name for themselves over in Europe, and if you ask the locals, they’ll tell you that this is only the beginning. There’s a great culture over there for the sport, and if they can edge their way through another round or two, they could really start something of a movement.

Team News

In what is a huge blow to their chances of progressing into the final eight of the tournament, Naby Keita has been ruled out through injury.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting back in 2017, Algeria beat Guinea 2-1.
• Algeria have won all three of their AFCON games so far.
• Guinea have won one, drawn one and lost one of their AFCON games so far.
• Algeria have scored six goals and conceded zero in the tournament.
• Guinea have scored four goals and conceded three in the tournament.

Conclusion

Guinea are a plucky side with a lot of heart, but at some stage, heart just isn’t enough. Algeria are a well-oiled machine by comparison, and we think they’re just going to have too much for them on the night. It’s going to be an entertaining game as Guinea have a few match winners within their ranks, but not to the point where they can cause Algeria any serious problems. It’ll be tight in terms of the scoreline, but Algeria will be the ones heading into the quarter-finals.

Prediction: Algeria win

Best Odds: 8/11

Bookmaker: bet365