AFCON 2025: Nigeria See Off Algeria to Set Up Blockbuster Semifinal Against Morocco

Nigeria booked their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals with a commanding 2-0 victory over Algeria at Marrakesh Stadium on Saturday, January 10.

The Super Eagles will now face hosts Morocco who eliminated Cameroon in what promises to be an epic last-four clash.

Second-half strikes from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams sealed the win, as Nigeria reached the semi-finals for the third time in four editions, continuing their quest for a fourth continental crown after falling short in the 2023 final against Ivory Coast.

How It Unfolded

Nigeria dominated early proceedings, creating a flurry of chances. Semi Ajayi headed over inside two minutes, while Osimhen missed a close-range header soon after. Ademola Lookman tested Luca Zidane midway through the half, and Osimhen was denied by a brave save moments later.

Algeria’s Ramy Bensebaini cleared off the line to keep the scores level, and Akor Adams squandered a golden opportunity before the break.

The breakthrough came just two minutes into the second half when Bruno Onyemaechi’s pinpoint cross found Osimhen, who powered home his fourth goal of the tournament. Ten minutes later, Osimhen turned provider, racing onto Calvin Bassey’s through-ball and squaring for Adams to tap in.

Algeria offered little in response, with Baghdad Bounedjah firing over late on, while Adams struck the post as Nigeria threatened to extend their lead.

Line-Ups

Algeria XI: L. Zidane, R. Belghali, A. Mandi, R. Bensebaini, R. Aït-Nouri, R. Mahrez (A. Moussa 61′), R. Zerrouki (B. Bounedjah 60′), H. Boudaoui (H. Abdelli 81′), F. Chaibi, I. Maza (A. Boulbina 61′), M. Amoura (R. Berkane 81′).

Nigeria XI: S. Nwabali, B. Osayi-Samuel (I. Ogbu 90+5′), S. Ajayi, C. Bassey, B. Onyemaechi, F. Onyeka (M. Simon 69′), W. Ndidi (R. Onyedika 69′), A. Iwobi, A. Lookman (F. Dele-Bashiru 86′), A. Adams (C. Awaziem 86′), V. Osimhen.