AFCON 2025: Super Eagles Beat Algeria 2-0, To Play Morocco In Semi-Final

Nigeria have booked a place in the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after beating Algeria 2–0 in Marrakesh, setting up a last-four clash with hosts Morocco.

Victor Osimhen put the Super Eagles ahead shortly after the break before providing the assist for Akor Adams to score the second goal before the hour mark, sealing a comfortable win.

Nigeria controlled much of the first half but went into the interval without a goal.

That changed barely two minutes into the second half when Osimhen rose to head home a cross and give his side the lead.

Moments later, the reigning African Player of the Year turned provider, slipping the ball to Adams, who made it 2–0 and effectively ended the contest.

The Super Eagles, runners-up at the previous AFCON in Ivory Coast, arrived in Morocco eager to bounce back from missing out on World Cup qualification and are now chasing a fourth continental title.

They were unfazed by a crowd of over 32,000 supporters, most of whom backed Algeria.

However, Nigeria are expected to face a tougher atmosphere in Rabat when they meet Morocco in the semi-final.

Algeria, champions in 2019, had enjoyed their strongest AFCON run since that triumph and came into the match full of confidence after strong group performances and a narrow win over DR Congo in the last 16.

Despite boasting attacking stars like Riyad Mahrez, Ibrahim Maza and Mohamed Amoura, Algeria failed to register a single shot in the first half and were fortunate not to be behind earlier.

Nigeria came close in the 28th minute when Ademola Lookman’s free kick caused confusion in the box, but Ramy Bensebaini cleared the ball off the line.

Akor Adams then missed a clear chance minutes later, firing over the bar when through on goal.

Whatever was said at half-time by coach Eric Chelle paid off quickly.

Alex Iwobi found Bruno Onyemaechi on the left, and his cross was neatly headed into the net by Osimhen.

Osimhen, who had gone seven AFCON games without scoring before the group stage, now has four goals in his last four matches.

Nigeria later added a second when Osimhen broke free and selflessly squared the ball for Adams to round the goalkeeper and score.

The Super Eagles now lead the tournament’s scoring chart with 14 goals.

Tempers flared briefly at the final whistle, but Nigeria’s focus now shifts to Rabat for their semi-final showdown with Morocco.