Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams were on the scoresheet as Nigeria secured a convincing 2–0 victory over Algeria to book their place in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
2025 AFCON – Quarter-final
Algeria 0–2 Nigeria
Osimhen (47’)
Akor Adams (57’)
The Super Eagles will now face hosts Morocco on Wednesday for a place in the final, following an authoritative display in Saturday’s last-eight encounter in Marrakech.
Nigeria dominated the opening half and were unfortunate not to go into the break ahead. Akor Adams missed the clearest opportunity of the first period, side-footing over the bar with only Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane to beat. Victor Osimhen was also denied by an outstanding last-ditch tackle from Rayan Aït-Nouri, while Ademola Lookman tested Zidane with a sharp effort.
Calvin Bassey came agonisingly close to opening the scoring when his close-range prod was hooked away by Ramy Bensebaini. A lengthy VAR check followed to determine whether the ball had crossed the line, but with goal-line technology not in use at this AFCON, play continued.
Algeria’s resistance finally crumbled just 84 seconds into the second half. Bruno Onyemaechi delivered a precise cross to the far post, where Osimhen rose highest to power home a downward header for Nigeria’s deserved opener.
Osimhen nearly doubled his tally moments later but was denied, before turning provider in the 57th minute. The Napoli striker laid the ball into the path of Akor Adams, who showed great composure to round Zidane and slot into the empty net to make it 2–0.
Eric Chelle’s side had opportunities to extend their lead, with Adams particularly unlucky to head against the post from close range with the goal gaping. However, Nigeria remained in control and comfortably saw out the contest.
The victory underlines Nigeria’s growing momentum in the tournament as they prepare for a highly anticipated semi-final clash against Morocco.
