Nigeria produced one of their best performances of the tournament to beat Algeria 2-0 and reach the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations, setting up a big clash with hosts Morocco.
Victor Osimhen was the key figure as the Super Eagles dominated the quarter-final in Marrakesh from start to finish. He scored one goal and created another, showing leadership and sharpness when it mattered most.
The breakthrough came just two minutes into the second half. Bruno Onyemaechi sent a long cross into the box from the left, and Osimhen reacted quickly to guide the ball into the net. Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane misjudged the flight of the ball, allowing Nigeria to take a deserved lead.
Nigeria did not ease off after scoring. They continued to press, move the ball quickly and win key battles across the pitch. Ten minutes later, Osimhen turned provider. He collected the ball inside the area and calmly squared it to Akor Adams, who rounded Zidane and finished into an empty net to make it 2-0.
Algeria struggled to cope with Nigeria’s pace and intensity. They failed to register a single clear scoring chance, while Nigeria could have added more goals. In the first half, Calvin Bassey had a shot cleared off the line, and Akor Adams missed a good opportunity after intercepting a poor clearance from the goalkeeper.
The Super Eagles looked fresher and more organised, helped by the fact that they had comfortably beaten Mozambique in the previous round, while Algeria had been pushed to extra time against DR Congo. That difference showed as the match went on.
Osimhen continued to cause problems throughout the game, and Adams came close again late on when his header struck the post. Algeria, meanwhile, looked short of ideas and energy.
The win sends Nigeria into the semi-finals for the 17th time in their last 20 AFCON appearances. They will now face Morocco in Rabat on Wednesday, with a place in the final at stake.
Despite off-field issues earlier in the tournament, Nigeria’s performance against Algeria showed focus, discipline and belief. If they maintain this level, they will be confident of challenging any team left in the competition.
