Hosts Angola (four points) take on World Cup finalists Algeria (three points) in Luanda, knowing that a draw would automatically send them to the last eight.

But the even scoreline is a risk for the Algerians, who recovered from the shock defeat to Malawi (three points) with a narrow win over Mali (one point) last week.

In Cabinda, the Flames of Malawi could make history if they beat Mali, who only impressed throughout a late blitz in the first game versus Angola.

Angola

"We must win to be able to stay here. We may only need one point from Monday's game but it's going to be a hard point to earn, not an easy one, against a team that need victory and want to prove themselves against us," said Angola boss Manuel Jose.

Team News: Jose faces concerns over the fitness of Zuela, Gilberto and Flavio, the competition's top scorer so far.

Star man: The lethal partnership between Manucho and Flavio is Angola's main strength, should the latter be fit.

Player to watch: Skilful midfielder Mabina was excellent against Malawi.

Algeria

"The win (over Mali) has given the perfect answer to all our critics. I did my calculations before and six points should be enough to qualify," said coach Rabah Saadane.

Team News: Defender Antar Yahia remains a major doubt, while midfielder Khaled Lemmouchia was sent home in controversial circumstances.

Star man: Midfield marvel Karim Ziani.

Player to watch: Promising defender Rafik Halliche is at his best form at the moment.

Mali

Team News: Key midfielder Mahamadou Diarra is suspended after two cautions against Angola and Algeria.

Frederic Kanoute should return to the starting line-up after he was inexplicably kept on the bench for most of the match against Algeria.

Star man: Kanoute is Mali's main man.

Player to watch: Seydou Keita will be looking to replicate his heroics in the first match.

Malawi

"This is perhaps the biggest game ever in Malawi's history. Reaching the last eight would be everything for us and make the whole nation proud," said coach Kinnah Phiri.

Star man: Influential playmaker Joseph Kamwendo.

Player to watch: Young striker Chiukepo Msowoya is a supersub for Kinnah Phiri's side.