Nigeria fly past Algeria to book Semifinal spot
Nigeria defeated Algeria 2-0 in the AFCON 2025 quarter-final at Marrakesh, thanks to second-half goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams. The Super Eagles controlled the game and booked their place in the semi-finals, where they will face hosts Morocco.
The opening 45 minutes saw Nigeria dominate possession and create the better chances, though they struggled to convert. Semi Ajayi had an early header over the bar, while Victor Osimhen missed a close-range opportunity from a corner. Ademola Lookman tested Algeria’s goalkeeper Luca Zidane with a shot on target midway through the half, but the Desert Foxes held firm. Despite Nigeria’s pressure, Algeria’s defensive discipline kept the scoreline level at halftime.
Just two minutes into the second half, Nigeria finally found their breakthrough. Bruno Onyemaechi delivered a precise cross from the left, and Victor Osimhen rose highest to head home, beating Zidane who misjudged his positioning. The goal was Osimhen’s fourth of the tournament, underlining his importance to Nigeria’s attack and setting the tone for the remainder of the match.
Nigeria’s momentum continued, and within ten minutes they struck again. Osimhen, showing unselfish play, set up Akor Adams, who calmly rounded Zidane before slotting into an empty net. The second goal gave Nigeria a commanding 2-0 lead and effectively ended Algeria’s hopes of a comeback. The Super Eagles’ attacking rhythm proved too much for Algeria, who had only conceded once before this game.
Algeria attempted to respond with tactical substitutions, but their efforts lacked penetration. The Desert Foxes, known for their defensive organization, were unable to cope with Nigeria’s pace and movement in the final third. Their attacking play remained speculative, with few clear chances created. Nigeria’s backline, marshaled by Ajayi and Calvin Bassey, ensured that goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali had little to worry about.
Beyond the goals, Nigeria impressed with their tactical discipline. The trio of Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Lookman controlled the tempo, recycling possession and cutting off Algeria’s transitions. The Super Eagles balanced defensive solidity with attacking flair, a combination that highlighted their credentials as serious title contenders. Their ability to adapt after halftime was crucial in breaking down Algeria’s resistance.
With this victory, Nigeria advanced to the semi-finals for the third time in the last four AFCON editions. They will face hosts Morocco in what promises to be a high-stakes clash. For Algeria, the defeat marked a disappointing end to a campaign that had shown promise defensively but lacked attacking sharpness. Nigeria’s performance, led by Osimhen and Adams, reinforced their status as one of the favorites to lift the trophy.
