High-Flying Super Eagles Defeat Algeria’s Desert Foxes To Reach AFCON Semi-Final

High-Flying Super Eagles Defeat Algeria’s Desert Foxes To Reach AFCON Semi-Final

Nigeria’s Super Eagles soared into the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a commanding 2–0 victory over Algeria’s Desert Foxes at the Grand Stade de Marrakech on January 10, 2026.

The win not only extended Nigeria’s unbeaten run in the tournament but also set up a highly anticipated clash against hosts Morocco in the next round.

The quarter-final encounter was marked by Nigeria’s dominance from the opening whistle. Despite a goalless first half, the Super Eagles controlled possession, dictated the tempo, and created several scoring opportunities. Algeria’s defense, led by Ramy Bensebaini, was forced into desperate clearances to keep the scoreline level.

However, the breakthrough arrived just two minutes after the restart when Victor Osimhen powered home a trademark header from Bruno Onyemaechi’s precise cross. It was Osimhen’s fourth goal of the tournament, further cementing his reputation as Nigeria’s talisman.

Barely ten minutes later, Nigeria doubled their advantage with a beautifully orchestrated team move. Alex Iwobi split the Algerian defense with a deft outside-of-the-boot pass, Osimhen unselfishly squared the ball across goal, and Akor Adams calmly rounded goalkeeper Luca Zidane before slotting into an empty net. The combination of flair and composure epitomized Nigeria’s attacking prowess.

Algeria, who had conceded only one goal prior to this match, struggled to impose themselves and failed to register a single shot on target. Even with second-half substitutions, including the introduction of Baghdad Bounedjah, the Desert Foxes could not break Nigeria’s defensive resilience. Calvin Bassey anchored the backline with authority, while Stanley Nwabali in goal ensured Nigeria remained unbreached.

The Super Eagles continued to threaten, with Adams hitting the post and other chances narrowly missing the target. Iwobi orchestrated play superbly from midfield, while Wilfred Ndidi’s yellow card provided a minor concern ahead of the semi-final. Late substitutions, including Moses Simon, helped Nigeria manage the closing stages with composure.

The victory was celebrated as a statement of intent. Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle praised his side’s discipline and attacking fluidity, while the players exuded confidence as they look ahead to Morocco.

With Osimhen in scintillating form, Adams proving a reliable partner in attack, and the defensive unit holding firm, the Super Eagles appear well-positioned to challenge for a fourth continental crown.

The semi-final against Morocco promises to be a blockbuster encounter, pitting Nigeria’s high-flying attack against the hosts’ passionate home support.

For now, the Super Eagles’ triumph over Algeria stands as a testament to their growing momentum and determination to reclaim African football’s ultimate prize.