Marrakech, Morocco – January 10, 2026 – In a dominant display at the Stade de Marrakech, Nigeria’s Super Eagles advanced to the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 with a convincing 2-0 win over Algeria.
Second-half goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams sealed the victory for the three-time champions, who controlled the match from start to finish despite a scoreless first half.
The breakthrough came shortly after the interval when Napoli striker Victor Osimhen rose highest to head home a pinpoint cross from Moses Simon in the 47th minute, breaking the deadlock and energizing the Nigerian supporters in attendance.
Osimhen, who has been in scintillating form throughout the tournament, not only scored but also provided the assist for the second goal.
In the 57th minute, he laid off a clever pass to Montpellier forward Akor Adams, who slotted the ball past Algeria’s goalkeeper Luca Zidane to double the lead.
Algeria, known as the Desert Foxes, struggled to create meaningful chances against a solid Nigerian defense marshaled by captain William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey.
Despite efforts from players like Riyad Mahrez and Ramy Bensebaini, the Algerians failed to register a shot on target in the second half, highlighting Nigeria’s tactical superiority under coach Augustine Eguavoen.
This result marks Nigeria’s continued resurgence in African football, having previously won the AFCON in 1980, 1994, and 2013.
The Super Eagles entered the quarterfinal as favorites after topping their group and dispatching Cameroon in the round of 16.
Looking ahead, Nigeria will face a stern test in the semi-finals against the host nation, Morocco, on January 14 at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca.
The Atlas Lions, who are unbeaten in the tournament so far, advanced after a hard-fought win over Egypt in their quarterfinal.
This matchup promises to be a blockbuster, pitting Nigeria’s attacking flair against Morocco’s organized defense and home advantage.
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