Nigeria’s Super Eagles continued their impressive run at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, securing a place in the semi-finals with a commanding 2–0 victory over Algeria at the Stade de Marrakech on Saturday night. The win underlined Nigeria’s growing reputation as one of the most balanced and dangerous sides in the tournament.
The result sets up a highly anticipated last-four showdown against tournament hosts Morocco, who earlier defeated Cameroon in a hard-fought quarter-final encounter. With the competition now entering its decisive phase, Nigeria’s blend of attacking flair and defensive solidity has made them strong contenders for the title.
The Super Eagles went into the quarter-final brimming with confidence following a ruthless 4–0 triumph over Mozambique in the Round of 16. That result took Nigeria’s goal tally to 12 in four matches — the highest at the tournament. Algeria, however, posed a stern test. The North Africans arrived unbeaten, having conceded just once in their previous four games, and were widely regarded as one of the best-organised defensive units in the competition.
Read related story fromNew Daily Prime:
AFCON: Super Eagles set for Marrakech move ahead of quarterfinal
AFCON: NFF confirms Super Eagles’ match bonuses
From the opening exchanges, Nigeria asserted their authority. They dominated possession, pressed aggressively in midfield and forced Algeria to defend deep for long spells. Victor Osimhen spearheaded the attack with pace and physical presence, supported by Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams on the flanks. In midfield, Alex Iwobi dictated play, smoothly linking defence and attack.
Nigeria created several clear-cut chances in the first half. Akor Adams went close with a one-on-one effort, while another attempt was heroically cleared off the line. Algeria remained disciplined and compact, relying on swift counter-attacks and the reflexes of goalkeeper Luca Zidane to keep the scoreline level at the interval.
The breakthrough finally came early in the second half when Osimhen rose above his marker to head home a powerful effort, breaking Algeria’s resistance. Buoyed by the goal, Nigeria tightened their grip on the contest. Akor Adams soon made amends for his earlier misses, calmly finishing after a well-timed assist from Osimhen to double the lead.
With Wilfred Ndidi shielding the backline and breaking up Algerian attacks, the Super Eagles controlled proceedings. Algeria introduced fresh legs in an attempt to change the game, but Nigeria’s defensive organisation and composure ensured there was no late drama.
At the final whistle, Nigeria celebrated a deserved victory and a place in the semi-finals, where a daunting test against hosts Morocco now awaits as their quest for a fourth continental crown continues.
For more details, visit www.newdailyprime.news
