Nigeria Outclass Algeria to Book AFCON Semifinal Clash with Morocco

Nigeria Outclass Algeria to Book AFCON Semifinal Clash with Morocco

Kingsley Ohens reporting For Urbanscoopnews

Nigeria delivered a composed and authoritative performance to defeat Algeria 2–0 in their Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal on Saturday, securing a place in the semifinals where they will face tournament hosts Morocco.

Second-half goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams proved decisive as the Super Eagles underlined their credentials as serious title contenders, controlling large spells of the contest and creating the clearer scoring opportunities.

Nigeria broke the deadlock just two minutes after the restart. Bruno Onyemaechi delivered a searching cross from the left, which Osimhen met confidently. Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane misjudged his movement, leaping awkwardly and allowing the Napoli forward to steer the ball into the net with relative ease.

Algeria had earlier been given a warning in the 37th minute when Zidane’s poor clearance to Aïssa Mandi was intercepted by Alex Iwobi. The midfielder quickly released Adams, but the Sevilla striker dragged his left-footed effort wide with only the goalkeeper to beat.

Osimhen’s relentless pressing and movement continued to trouble the Algerian defence, and Nigeria eventually doubled their advantage late on. Adams, who had already struck the post with a header in the 82nd minute, finally got his reward as sustained pressure paid off and sealed the victory.

Algeria struggled to match Nigeria’s intensity, a contrast that may have been influenced by their gruelling extra-time win over the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the round of 16 earlier in the week. Several key players appeared off the pace, while Nigeria looked fresher following a comfortable 4–0 victory over Mozambique.

The result extends Nigeria’s remarkable AFCON pedigree, with the Super Eagles reaching the semifinals for the 17th time in the last 20 tournaments they have qualified for. It is an achievement made more notable given reports of off-field distractions during their preparation, including unresolved bonus issues.

Nigeria will now face hosts Morocco in Rabat on Wednesday in what promises to be a high-stakes semifinal encounter. The second semifinal will see defending champions Ivory Coast take on seven-time winners Egypt in Agadir, with Senegal awaiting the winner.

For Nigeria, the performance against Algeria served as a statement of intent — disciplined, clinical, and driven — as they move one step closer to continental glory.