Algeria 0–2 Nigeria: Osimhen, Akor fire Super Eagles into AFCON semi final

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Nigeria’s Super Eagles produced a strong and disciplined performance to defeat Algeria 2–0 on Saturday evening, sealing their place in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

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Playing at the Marrakesh Stadium, the Super Eagles showed patience, control and cutting edge to overcome a stubborn Algerian side and book a last-four clash against tournament hosts Morocco.

Nigeria started the match with confidence and energy, pressing high and forcing Algeria into early mistakes. Within the opening 15 minutes, the Super Eagles dominated possession and territory, with Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams causing problems down the flanks.

Algeria struggled to settle and relied mainly on long balls and set pieces, but Nigeria’s defence, marshalled by Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey, remained solid. Stanley Nwabali was largely untroubled in goal during the first half.

Nigeria created better chances before the break. Adams missed a clear opportunity after being set up by Alex Iwobi, while Lookman and Victor Osimhen both tested goalkeeper Luca Zidane. A late VAR check for a possible Nigerian goal added drama, but the first half ended scoreless despite Nigeria’s dominance.

The breakthrough came shortly after the restart. Just two minutes into the second half, Bruno Onyemaechi delivered a fine cross from the left. Osimhen timed his run perfectly and guided a calm header past Zidane to give Nigeria a deserved lead.

The goal lifted the Super Eagles, who continued to press forward with confidence. Algeria tried to respond by introducing fresh legs, including Baghdad Bounedjah and Riyad Mahrez, but Nigeria remained organised and alert.

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In the 57th minute, Nigeria doubled their advantage with a well-worked team goal. Iwobi split the Algerian defence with a clever pass to Osimhen, who unselfishly squared the ball for Akor Adams. The striker rounded the goalkeeper and calmly walked the ball into the net to make it 2–0.

From that point, Nigeria were firmly in control. Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka worked tirelessly in midfield, breaking up play and slowing the tempo whenever Algeria threatened. Bassey also made a crucial recovery run to deny Mohamed Amoura a clear chance on goal.

Adams nearly added a third when his header struck the post late on, while substitute Fisayo Dele-Bashiru helped Nigeria manage the closing stages. Algeria pushed forward in desperation, but their efforts were easily dealt with by Nigeria’s defence.

At full-time, the Super Eagles celebrated a famous win that underlined their growing confidence at the tournament where they are seeking a fourth title.

With this result, Nigeria advance to the AFCON semi-finals, where they will face hosts, Morocco.

It promises to be another tough test, but the Super Eagles will take belief from this assured display as they continue their push for a fourth continental title.