Nigeria’s Super Eagles delivered a dominant performance to defeat Algeria 2–0 and secure a place in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The quarter-final encounter, played on Saturday evening, saw Nigeria firmly in control for large spells. Despite their first-half dominance, Eric Chelle’s side went into the break goalless, with Calvin Bassey coming closest after his effort was dramatically cleared off the line.
The breakthrough came just two minutes into the second half. Bruno Onyemaechi whipped in an inviting cross that Victor Osimhen met with a powerful header from close range to put Nigeria ahead.
Algeria attempted to respond but struggled to break down Nigeria’s well-organised defence. The Super Eagles doubled their advantage in the 57th minute through a move of real quality. Osimhen turned provider, threading a perfectly weighted pass to Akor Adams, who calmly deceived the goalkeeper before lifting the ball into the net.
From then on, Nigeria dictated the tempo and looked the more dangerous side. Adams went close to adding a second when his header struck the post, while Alex Iwobi and Bright Osayi-Samuel both tested the Algerian defence.
Algeria, under the guidance of Vladimir Petkovic, found it difficult to cope with Nigeria’s intensity and movement. Substitutions, including the withdrawal of Riyad Mahrez around the hour mark, failed to spark a turnaround. The North Africans ended the contest without a single shot on target.
Nigeria did suffer a setback when Wilfred Ndidi was forced off through injury midway through the second half, but the change did little to disrupt their rhythm. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali remained largely untroubled as Nigeria managed the closing stages professionally, including six minutes of added time.
The statistics underlined Nigeria’s superiority: 13 shots to Algeria’s three, nearly 60 percent possession, and five clear-cut chances created.
With the victory, the three-time African champions advance to the last four and will face tournament hosts Morocco in what promises to be a thrilling semi-final clash on Wednesday, January 14.
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