The Super Eagles of Nigeria defeated Algeria 2–0 on Saturday at the Grand Stade de Marrakech to secure a place in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Second-half goals from Akor Adams and Victor Osimhen sealed the victory over the Desert Foxes, who had conceded just one goal in the tournament prior to the quarter-final encounter.
After a tightly contested first half in which Algeria resisted Nigeria’s pressure, the Super Eagles broke through after the interval. Bruno Onyemaechi delivered a fine cross for Osimhen to head home, before the Galatasaray striker turned provider, setting up Adams for Nigeria’s second goal.
Osimhen’s strike took his tally to four goals in the tournament.
Nigeria had dominated proceedings long before the goals arrived. In the first half, they controlled possession, dictated the tempo, and created several scoring chances, with Algeria defender Ramy Bensebaini producing multiple goal-line clearances to keep the scores level at the break.
Also Read: Preview: Super Eagles V Dessert Foxes
Following the goals, Algeria attempted to impose themselves but failed to register a single shot on target throughout the match. Nigeria continued to threaten, with Adams later striking the post and other efforts narrowly missing the target.
Alex Iwobi delivered another impressive display in midfield, while Calvin Bassey marshalled the defence with authority. Wilfred Ndidi received a yellow card, raising concerns ahead of the semi-final, but Nigeria’s backline remained resolute to see out the contest.
With the victory, Nigeria will face host nation Morocco in the semi-finals, after the Atlas Lions defeated Cameroon on Friday.
Reacting to the win in a statement posted on his X page, Rabiu the Chairman of BUA Group congratulated the players on what he described as a brilliant performance against the Desert Foxes.
He said the team had lifted the nation’s spirit and assured them of Nigerians’ full support as they prepared for the semi-finals.
Announcing the rewards, Rabiu said: “To encourage you, I pledge USD 500,000 to the players upon winning the semi-final, with an additional USD 50,000 for every goal scored. Should you go on to win the final, I further pledge USD 1,000,000, plus USD 100,000 for each goal scored in the final. Wishing you continued success as you carry Nigeria forward. Keep making Nigeria proud. Proudly Nigerian.”
