Nigeria struck at exactly the right moment. Against a resilient Algeria side, the Super Eagles showcased their power and efficiency to secure a 2–0 victory and book their place in the semi-finals of AFCON 2025.
For forty-five minutes, the contest remained tight and tense. Algeria, well organized around a compact midfield block, managed to contain Nigeria’s attacks, even though Victor Osimhen, Akor Adams and Ademola Lookman posed a constant threat inside the box. The Fennecs looked to break through quick transitions but failed to truly trouble Nwabali. At halftime, everything was still to play for.
The match turned immediately after the restart. In the 47th minute, Victor Osimhen rose highest to thunder home a precise Onyemaechi cross with a powerful header. The goal, his fourth of the tournament released Nigeria and shattered the fragile balance of the game.
Ten minutes later, the Super Eagles struck again, ruthlessly exploiting Algeria’s weaknesses. Osimhen, once more at the heart of it, slipped Akor Adams in behind the defense. The forward kept his composure, rounding Luca Zidane before finishing into an empty net (57’). 2–0, game over.
Algeria attempted to respond, pushing more bodies into the final third, but lacked the sharpness and penetration to unsettle a disciplined and well-organized Nigerian defense. Nigeria, on the other hand, managed the game with maturity, slowing the tempo and closing down spaces.
Efficient, powerful, and clinical after the break, the Super Eagles march on — and enter the last four looking every bit like serious contenders.
Nigeria in their 16th AFCON semi final appearance will face hosts Morocco in the semifinal of the tournament.
Post-match reactions
Victor James Osimhen (Nigeria) – Man of the Match: “I scored a goal and provided an assist, but we shouldn’t focus on my personal performance; we should focus on the team effort of the national team. We won against a good Algerian team that has talented players.
For me, I was involved in the game, reflecting on my experience in the previous Africa Cup of Nations. It’s not just about scoring decisive goals, but about how we influence the game and contribute to the victory—that’s what matters most in the national team. I always strive to improve myself, both mentally and physically.”
Eric Sékou Chelle – Nigeria’s Coach:
“The Nigerian players are very happy, and I am extremely proud of them. We really enjoyed the match. I have worked a lot since taking over my role with the Nigerian national team; we put in a lot of effort during preparations. My vision has been implemented in the Nigerian team, and we must continue working in this manner.
The victory we achieved against Algeria was deserved. The match was fantastic, and I am very happy with the win. After this match, we have another game, and we will prepare for it. Morocco is a strong team, and there will be pressure in front of the host nation. The best team will win. I am proud that we will face Morocco, and I hope it will be a good match, with the best team winning.”
Vladimir Petković – Algeria’s Coach:
“I congratulate the Nigerian team, who deserved to win the match. The opponent played better than us. We couldn’t get into the game properly; we had to stay focused.
I don’t want to go into too many details, but Nigeria was better than us. We were missing a lot of things. We wanted to control the game, but the opponent was strong and prevented us from doing so. The Nigerian team showed the individual skills they possess, and physically we were behind. We tried to come back in the second half, but we couldn’t reach the level we wanted in attack.
Our players are disappointed and devastated after the match. They performed well in this tournament. Now the competition is over, and another tournament is coming. We must keep our heads high after this exit.”
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