Nigeria’s Super Eagles delivered a commanding performance on Saturday night, defeating Algeria 2-0 to secure a place in the semi-finals of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations.
After a dominant first half that yielded no goals, the breakthrough came just two minutes after the restart in Marrakesh. Victor Osimhen rose highest at the back post to head Nigeria in front, giving the Super Eagles a deserved lead.
The 2023 African Player of the Year then turned provider moments later, releasing Akor Adams with a perfectly timed pass. Adams calmly rounded goalkeeper Luca Zidane before slotting home Nigeria’s second goal just before the hour mark, effectively ending Algeria’s resistance.
Nigeria had controlled much of the first half, creating several clear chances. Ademola Lookman’s dangerous free-kick delivery almost resulted in an opener, while Adams missed a golden opportunity when he blazed over the bar from close range. Algeria, despite boasting attacking stars like Riyad Mahrez, struggled to find rhythm and failed to register a single shot before the break.
Osimhen’s goal marked his fourth strike in four matches, underlining his growing influence at the tournament. With 14 goals scored so far, Nigeria now stand as the competition’s highest-scoring team.
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Algeria, who knocked Nigeria out on their way to winning the title in 2019, were backed by a strong crowd of over 32,000 fans but could not match the Super Eagles’ intensity or organisation. They rarely threatened, even as tempers flared briefly at full-time.
Nigeria, runners-up at the last AFCON, will now face tournament hosts Morocco in a high-stakes semi-final clash in Rabat on Wednesday, as they continue their quest for a fourth continental title.
