Nigeria’s Super Eagles booked their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-finals following a 2–0 victory over Algeria at the Grand Stade de Marrakech on Saturday.
Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams delivered the decisive blows in the second half, scoring in the 47th and 57th minutes respectively, as Nigeria outclassed the Desert Foxes in a dominant quarter-final display.
The win sets up a thrilling semi-final showdown with host nation Morocco.
Despite controlling the first half and creating multiple scoring opportunities, Nigeria had been held at bay by Algeria’s defence, with Ramy Bensebaini making crucial goal-line interventions.
The Desert Foxes struggled to mount meaningful attacks, failing to register a shot on target throughout the first 45 minutes.
Two minutes after the restart, Osimhen rose above the Algerian defence to head in a pinpoint cross from Bruno Onyemaechi, giving Nigeria the lead. Ten minutes later, Alex Iwobi orchestrated a brilliant move, splitting the defence with a precise pass before Osimhen squared the ball to Adams, who calmly rounded goalkeeper Luca Zidane to double the advantage.
The goals marked Osimhen’s fourth of the tournament and highlighted Nigeria’s attacking cohesion, with Iwobi and Adams combining seamlessly. Midfielder Wilfred Ndidi received a yellow card, but the defensive unit, led by Calvin Bassey, remained resolute.
Late substitutions, including Moses Simon, helped Nigeria manage the closing stages comfortably.
Nigeria entered the quarter-finals with strong momentum, having topped their group unbeaten and delivered a solid round of 16 performance.
Coach Eric Chelle’s tactical approach and the team’s balanced style of play have been key to their success, blending defensive discipline with quick, fluid attacks.
Algeria, which had conceded only once before the match, was unable to cope with Nigeria’s relentless pressure and clinical finishing.
The upcoming semi-final against Morocco promises to be a high-stakes battle, with the hosts having advanced past Cameroon. Nigeria will face a formidable opponent, but the Eagles’ confidence and attacking firepower give them a strong chance of reaching the final.
The victory maintains Nigeria’s unbeaten run in AFCON 2025 and fuels hopes of securing a fourth continental title.
The team’s performance has drawn widespread praise, with BUA Group chairman pledging $500,000 in bonuses to the squad for their semi-final qualification.
With morale high and key players in top form, Nigeria’s Super Eagles look well-positioned to continue their impressive campaign and challenge for AFCON glory as they prepare for their blockbuster semi-final clash against Morocco.
