AFCON 2025: Nigeria Eliminate Algeria To Reach Last Four

Nigeria maintained its unbeaten run with a 2-0 victory against Algeria and progressed to the AFCON  Cup semifinals in Morocco. 

The Super Eagles took a leap from a head-to-head tie with Algeria, extending their winning streak against their opponents to 5-4 in 11 encounters. In their previous meeting in the AFCON Cup, Alferia won 2-1 against the Super Eagles in  Egypt. 

After an entertaining first half, Nigeria snatched the victory, scoring two goals after the interval. Nigeria took the lead from Victor Osimhen's header, turning in a cross from B Onyemaechi. 10 minutes later, Akor Adams scored the second goal.

Nigeria progressed to the Last Four without losing a game or conceding a goal in the previous five games. They last won the AFCON Cup 13 years ago and reached the final of the last edition, losing to the host nation, Ivory Coast. 

Overview 

The Super Eagles dominated the game, controlling the possession by a great margin. Algeria barely troubled the Nigerian 18-yard box. Until the 88th minute, Algeria had three shots without any shots at the target. The Nigerian defense was resolute and composed. They did not become complacent until Osayi-Samuel's head pass to the goalkeeper almost caused a scare. 

Technically, Nigeria kept to its game plan. The midfield was effective, and the attacking forward penetrated aggressively. Eric Chelle adjusted his formation from 4-3-2-1 to 5-4-1, replacing Ademola Lookman and Adam's with a midfielder and a defender. The changes reinforced the Super Eagles to keep the lead and win the match.