By Wellington Jopelo
Victor Osimhen delivered a powerful performance as Nigeria defeated Algeria 2–0 to reach the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025. The quarter-final victory was Nigeria’s first-ever win over Algeria at this stage of the competition and continued the Super Eagles’ perfect run at the tournament.
The win also marked Nigeria’s fifth straight victory at the ongoing AFCON, the first time the country has achieved such a feat in a single edition. It ended years of frustration against Algeria and served as revenge for Nigeria’s painful semi-final exit to the North Africans in 2019.
Nigeria broke the deadlock early in the second half. Just two minutes after the restart, Osimhen rose freely inside the box and headed home a fine cross from Bruno Onyemaechi to give the Super Eagles the lead.
Algeria pushed forward in response, but Nigeria stayed calm and organised. Osimhen remained a constant threat, forcing the Algerian goalkeeper into a close-range save before setting up Nigeria’s second goal.
In the 57th minute, Osimhen raced forward on a counterattack and squared the ball to Akor Adams, who finished confidently to make it 2–0. Nigeria then managed the game well as Algeria searched desperately for a way back.
Despite late pressure, the Super Eagles defended strongly and limited Algeria to half chances. Adams hit the post late on, while goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali controlled his area well as Nigeria held on through added time to secure another clean sheet.
The victory means Nigeria have now won all five matches at the tournament, scoring 14 goals — their highest tally in AFCON history. It was their 12th quarter-final appearance, and they have now advanced from this stage 11 times.
Osimhen’s goal took his tournament total to four, while Ademola Lookman continued his impressive contribution despite not scoring. Together, both players have been involved in most of Nigeria’s goals at the competition.
Nigeria will now face hosts Morocco in the semi-finals on Wednesday, aiming to move one step closer to a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title, with confidence high and momentum firmly on their side.