Nigeria defeated Algeria 2-0 in the quarter-final match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on January 10, 2026, at the Stade de Marrakech. Second-half goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams secured a dominant victory for the Super Eagles and a place in the semi-finals against host nation Morocco.Clinical Second Half Sinks Algeria The highly anticipated clash, featuring two of the tournament's form sides, lived up to its billing as a heavyweight contest, with Nigeria ultimately asserting their dominance through a display of power, pace, and efficiency. Nigeria was the superior side from the outset, controlling possession and creating numerous opportunities in the first half. However, they were unable to convert their chances, with Akor Adams notably blazing a one-on-one opportunity over the bar, and a Calvin Bassey effort cleared off the line by Ramy Bensebaini. The breakthrough came just 85 seconds into the second half. Victor Osimhen, the 2023 African Player of the Year, rose with a "trademark leap" to power home a downward header from Bruno Onyemaechi's precise cross from the left wing, beating Algerian goalkeeper Luca Zidane. Just ten minutes later, Nigeria doubled their lead. Osimhen turned provider, playing a selfless ball to strike partner Akor Adams, who calmly rounded Zidane to tap the ball into an empty net.
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Tactical Masterclass and Key Performers Nigeria's performance was a "master class". Midfielder Alex Iwobi was instrumental, delivering a string of line-breaking passes that consistently unlocked the Algerian defence. Defensively, Nigeria was imperious, preventing Algeria from registering a single shot on target throughout the entire match, a remarkable feat against a team featuring star forward Riyad Mahrez. Algeria, who entered the match with the tournament's most disciplined defence, appeared exhausted after their extra-time victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo in the last 16. Their lacklustre attacking display culminated in the substitution of a largely "anonymous" Riyad Mahrez on the hour mark. Victor Osimhen was named Man of the Match for his goal and assist, a testament to his crucial role in the victory. Road Ahead With this emphatic victory, Nigeria advances to a record 17th AFCON semi-final, where they will face the tournament hosts Morocco in what promises to be a fiery encounter on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, in Rabat. The other semi-final will see Senegal take on Egypt. The Super Eagles' convincing display has positioned them as serious contenders to lift their fourth continental title and finally make up for their defeat in the 2023 AFCON final. These match reports detail Nigeria's 2-0 victory over Algeria in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals, highlighting key goals, player performances, and tactical insights:
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