Nigeria’s front two rose to the occasion as the Super Eagles recorded a commanding 2–0 victory over Algeria, sealing a place in the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations, where they will face hosts Morocco.
Eric Chelle’s men set the tone early, asserting dominance from the opening minutes and pinning Algeria deep in their own half. Ademola Lookman was central to Nigeria’s early attacking intent, cutting inside to fire a powerful shot that was safely gathered by goalkeeper Luca Zidane.
Soon after, Lookman nearly slipped Victor Osimhen through on goal, but a well-timed intervention from Rayan Aït-Nouri denied the Super Eagles a clear opening.
Nigeria continued to apply pressure and came close to breaking the deadlock before the interval. From a dangerous free kick, Calvin Bassey produced a delicate finish that seemed destined for the net, only to be cleared off the line, highlighting Nigeria’s dominance.
By half-time, Algeria had failed to register a single shot on target, underlining the Super Eagles’ control of the contest. The breakthrough came shortly after the restart when Bruno Onyemaechi delivered a precise cross into the box, and Osimhen rose highest to power a header past Zidane for his 35th international goal, giving Nigeria a deserved lead.
The goal opened the game up, and Nigeria quickly doubled their advantage. This time, Osimhen turned provider. After being expertly found by Alex Iwobi, the Napoli striker calmly squared the ball for Akor Adams, who finished confidently to make it 2–0. It was Adams’ third goal in two knockout matches, further tightening Nigeria’s grip on the tie.
Algeria struggled to mount a response, offering little attacking threat and failing to trouble Nigeria’s goalkeeper. The Super Eagles, meanwhile, were clinical, converting two of their three clear chances and seeing out the match with composure.
The win keeps Nigeria firmly on track for a fourth AFCON title and sets up an enticing semi-final clash with Morocco, who defeated Cameroon on Friday.
Elsewhere, the final semi-final spot will be decided between Senegal and either Egypt or Ivory Coast, as the last four of AFCON 2025 take shape.
