The Super Eagles of Nigeria have booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a convincing 2–0 victory over Algeria’s Desert Foxes in Marrakech.
The quarter-final clash at the Grand Stade de Marrakech lived up to expectations as two African heavyweights went head-to-head for a place in the last four. Nigeria arrived with confidence following a dominant 4–0 win over Mozambique in the Round of 16, while Algeria were looking to build on their hard-fought extra-time victory over DR Congo.
From kickoff, Nigeria showed intent, pressing high and taking the game to their opponents. Early chances fell to Semi Ajayi and Victor Osimhen as the Super Eagles dictated the tempo, despite the strong presence of Algerian supporters in the stands.
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle named a strong starting XI, with Stanley Nwabali in goal, a backline of Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey and Bruno Onyemaechi, while Wilfred Ndidi captained the midfield alongside Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka. In attack, Osimhen led the line, supported by Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams.
Algeria struggled to contain Nigeria’s pace and movement, conceding several fouls as the game grew increasingly physical. VAR checks, yellow cards and missed chances kept the contest tense, but Nigeria’s persistence paid off.
The breakthrough came when the Super Eagles took the lead, silencing the Algerian fans and shifting momentum firmly in Nigeria’s favour. Shortly after, Akor Adams doubled the advantage, finishing off a fine team move with an assist from Osimhen to put Nigeria in full control.
Algeria made multiple substitutions in an attempt to stage a comeback, but Nigeria’s defence held firm. Despite concerns over Wilfred Ndidi, who was later substituted, the Super Eagles remained composed, with Osimhen taking over the captain’s armband.
With over 52,000 fans watching, Nigeria continued to push and came close to adding a third goal, hitting the crossbar through Akor Adams. Algeria, meanwhile, could not find a way past Nwabali as the clock ran down.
At full time, it was Algeria 0–2 Nigeria, confirming the Super Eagles’ qualification for the AFCON 2025 semi-finals. The victory ends Nigeria’s long wait for a win over Algeria and sets up a mouth-watering semi-final clash against tournament hosts Morocco.
Final Score:
Algeria 0–2 Nigeria
