Nigeria’s Super Eagles booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 semi-finals on Saturday with a solid 2–0 victory over Algeria’s Desert Foxes in a quarter-final clash at the Grand Stade de Marrakech. The win sets up a mouth-watering last-four tie against hosts Morocco on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
After an intense opening half in which neither side could find the breakthrough, Nigeria’s attacking quality told in the second half as they seized control of the match. Striker Victor Osimhen opened the scoring early after the break before Akor Adams added a second to seal a well-deserved win for the West Africans.
First Half: Cautious Start, Eagles Press
In the first 45 minutes, both teams came out with plenty at stake but cautious in their approach. Nigeria, boasting the competition’s most potent attack, kept the ball well and probed early, but Algeria’s disciplined defence held firm. Despite creating chances through quick inter-play on the wings and clever passes in midfield, the Super Eagles couldn’t convert.
Algeria, unbeaten before this match and known for tight defending throughout the tournament, relied on quick counters and the experience of seasoned players. Their defence, marshalled by goalkeeper Luca Zidane, managed to keep Nigeria at bay until halftime, despite pressure from the Eagles’ forwards.
Second Half: Eagles Break Through
The deadlock was finally broken shortly after the restart. A sweeping Nigerian attack down the left saw a precise cross delivered into the box, where Victor Osimhen rose highest to power a header past the Algerian keeper and put Nigeria ahead. The goal not only calmed the Super Eagles’ nerves but also electrified the Nigerian fans watching across the continent.
Buoyed by the lead, Nigeria continued to dominate possession and looked sharper with every passing minute. Ten minutes after taking the lead, Osimhen turned provider, laying on a well-timed pass for Akor Adams, who coolly slotted the ball into the net to double Nigeria’s advantage.
The second goal deflated Algeria’s hopes of staging a comeback. Despite bringing on fresh legs, the Desert Foxes struggled to carve out meaningful chances, and the Super Eagles’ defence stood firm to protect the clean sheet.
What This Win Means
Nigeria’s victory means they will face Morocco — the host nation — in the AFCON semi-final in Rabat next Wednesday. Morocco advanced after a 2–0 win over Cameroon in their quarter-final match.
Reaching the last four is a significant achievement for the Super Eagles, who have a rich history in the tournament. They are one of Africa’s most successful teams, having won the AFCON title three times previously (in 1980, 1994, and 2013) and regularly reaching the latter stages.
Players and Key Performances
Victor Osimhen was the standout performer for Nigeria. His goal was his fourth of the tournament, underscoring his importance as the team’s main attacking threat. His relentless movement, power and link-up play caused constant problems for the Algerian defence.
Akor Adams played his part too, demonstrating his ability to finish under pressure with the crucial second goal. Midfield captain Wilfred Ndidi anchored the team effectively, breaking up opposition attacks and helping Nigeria control the tempo of the match.
Despite Algeria’s defeat, they can take some credit for their disciplined showing in the first half and their run to the quarter-finals — a marker of their strength in African football. However, they couldn’t prevent a technically better and more cohesive Nigerian side from progressing.
Road Ahead: Semi-Final Showdown
Nigeria now turns its focus to a semifinal showdown with Morocco — a team that has impressed throughout the tournament and is aiming to win the title on home soil. The match is scheduled for January 14 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, with kickoff set for 9:00 p.m. local time.
This upcoming clash promises fireworks, as both teams boast strong squads with quality in every department. For Nigerian fans, it represents a huge opportunity to reach the AFCON final and challenge for the trophy.
A Moment of National Pride
The Super Eagles’ performance against Algeria was celebrated by supporters across Nigeria and the diaspora. From local viewing centres to fan clubs abroad, Nigerians united to cheer their team on in a display of national pride and unity.
As Nigeria prepares for the next chapter in this AFCON journey, hopes are high that the Super Eagles can build on this strong performance and go all the way to lift Africa’s most prestigious football title once again.