The Super Eagles of Nigeria have booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a convincing 2–0 victory over Algeria in Saturday’s quarter-final clash at the Grand Stade de Marrakech.
After a dominant but goalless first half, Nigeria found their ruthless edge early in the second period to seal a deserved win over the Desert Warriors.
Victor Osimhen broke the deadlock just 85 seconds after the restart, expertly heading Bruno Onyemaechi’s deep cross from the left down and back across goal for his fourth strike of the tournament.
Ten minutes later, Akor Adams doubled Nigeria’s advantage, rounding Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane after being played through by Osimhen following a slick attacking move.
Adams, the Sevilla forward, nearly added a third late on but saw his header from another Osimhen cross crash against the left-hand post with nine minutes remaining.
Nigeria were on top throughout the opening half but failed to translate their control into goals.
Calvin Bassey came close to opening the scoring after connecting with Ademola Lookman’s free-kick.
His effort was deflected by Zidane and appeared to cross the line before Ramy Bensebaini cleared, a moment that reignited calls for the introduction of goal-line technology at future AFCON tournaments.
Adams also missed a gilt-edged opportunity when he was sent clean through by Alex Iwobi, allowing Algeria to escape before the break.
Osimhen delivered a man-of-the-match performance, turning from clinical finisher to creative provider as Nigeria controlled proceedings and kept Algeria at bay.
The Super Eagles will now face host nation Morocco in the semi-finals on Wednesday at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat.
Morocco booked their place in the last four with a dominant victory over Cameroon on Friday night.
