Nigeria are back where they know best: the last four of the Africa Cup of Nations. On Saturday night in Marrakesh, the Super Eagles delivered a commanding 2–0 victory over Algeria in the first round of the AFCON 2025 quarter-finals, extending their record as the most consistent semi-finalists in the tournament’s history.
Goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams sealed Nigeria’s 16th AFCON semi-final appearance, setting up a high-stakes clash with tournament hosts Morocco. Beyond the scoreline, it was the manner of the win; dominant, disciplined, and decisive, that underlined Nigeria’s growing authority in Morocco.
From the opening whistle, Nigeria controlled the tempo, pressed with intent, and left Algeria chasing shadows for long stretches of the contest.
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Nigeria’s Press and Possession Break Algeria Early
The Super Eagles wasted no time imposing themselves. Eric Chelle named an unchanged lineup from the Round of 16, and the decision paid off immediately. Nigeria dominated possession, circulating the ball confidently while pressing Algeria high up the pitch.
Algeria struggled to cope with Nigeria’s intensity, failing to register a single shot on target in the first half. Victor Osimhen was a constant threat in the air, Semi Ajayi came close from set pieces, and Akor Adams missed a clear one-on-one opportunity that briefly kept Algeria in the contest.
The breakthrough came shortly after halftime. Bruno Onyemaechi delivered a precise cross from the left, and Osimhen rose above the Algerian defence with trademark power and timing, guiding his header past goalkeeper Luca Zidane to give Nigeria a deserved lead.
Ten minutes later, Nigeria struck again. Alex Iwobi’s line-breaking pass found Osimhen, who selflessly squared for Akor Adams. This time, the forward made no mistake, calmly finishing to double Nigeria’s advantage and effectively end the contest.
Defensive Authority and Tactical Maturity on Display
While Nigeria’s attacking quality stood out, their defensive performance was just as impressive. Algeria, one of the tournament’s most efficient sides in the group stage, were completely shut out.
Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi were dominant at the back, winning duels and snuffing out danger before it developed. Bright Osayi-Samuel delivered one of his best performances of the tournament, nullifying Riyad Mahrez and offering constant energy down the right flank. Onyemaechi matched that intensity on the opposite side, contributing both defensively and offensively.
In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka disrupted Algeria’s rhythm, while Iwobi dictated play with composure and intelligence. Nigeria’s press was coordinated and relentless, players often won the ball back within seconds of losing possession.
Chelle’s in-game management also drew praise. Aware of suspension risks ahead of the semi-final, the coach made smart substitutions to protect key players, later closing the game out with defensive reinforcements and controlled possession.
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Records Fall as Nigeria Eye Morocco Showdown
The victory marked another milestone for this Super Eagles side. Nigeria have now scored 14 goals at AFCON 2025, their highest tally in a single tournament and recorded five consecutive wins, a first in the competition’s history.
Perhaps most telling is their balance. After early defensive concerns, Nigeria have now kept back-to-back clean sheets while maintaining their attacking edge. With momentum building and belief growing, the Super Eagles head into a blockbuster semi-final against Morocco with confidence and clarity.
For Nigeria, this was not just a win, it was a statement. If AFCON nights like this make your heart beat faster, you’re in the right place. Follow RefinedNG for match stories, context beyond the scoreline, and African football told with depth, pride, and perspective.