Nigeria’s Super Eagles delivered a commanding performance to defeat Algeria 2-0 and secure a place in the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations.
Victor Osimhen was the star of the night in Marrakesh, opening the scoring shortly after the restart before providing the assist for Akor Adams’ second goal just before the hour mark. The result sets up a mouth-watering last-four clash with tournament hosts Morocco in Rabat.
After dominating possession and territory in the first half without reward, Nigeria wasted no time in breaking the deadlock following the interval.
Alex Iwobi switched play to Bruno Onyemaechi on the left, and his deep cross was met by Osimhen, who headed low past Luca Zidane to give the Super Eagles the lead.
The reigning African Player of the Year then turned provider minutes later, bursting in behind the Algerian defence and unselfishly squaring for Akor Adams, who rounded the goalkeeper and calmly slotted home to make it 2-0.
Nigeria could have added more goals, with Adams firing over when clean through late in the first half and later heading against the post.
Algeria, despite fielding attacking stars Riyad Mahrez, Ibrahim Maza and Mohamed Amoura, failed to register a single shot before half-time and rarely threatened a comeback.
The Super Eagles were unfazed by a largely pro-Algerian crowd of 32,452 set against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains. Although the atmosphere is expected to be even more intense in Rabat, Nigeria’s confidence continues to grow.
Runners-up at the last AFCON in Ivory Coast, Nigeria arrived in Morocco eager to move past the disappointment of missing out on World Cup qualification. With 14 goals scored so far, they are the tournament’s top scorers and remain firmly in contention for a fourth continental title.
Osimhen, who endured a seven-game goal drought at the Cup of Nations earlier in the tournament, now has four goals in his last four appearances. His leadership and form will be vital as Nigeria prepare for a fiery semi-final against the hosts.
Full-time scenes were tense as emotions spilled over between both teams, but for the Super Eagles, attention now turns to Rabat and a chance to move one step closer to AFCON glory.
