Nigeria further cemented their place in Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) history with a composed 2–0 victory over Algeria in the quarter-finals on Saturday night, extending a perfect run at the 2025 tournament and matching a long-standing Egyptian record.
The Super Eagles’ triumph saw them become only the second nation, after Egypt in 1974 and 2010, to score at least two goals in each of their first five matches at a single AFCON. The result also booked Nigeria a highly anticipated semi-final clash against host nation Morocco in Rabat, with a place in the final at stake.
Played in Marrakech, the encounter was billed as a tight contest, with both teams arriving in strong form. Nigeria had won all four of their previous matches within regulation time, while Algeria were among the most consistent sides in the competition. However, once the match got underway, Nigeria’s superiority was evident.
The first half ended goalless, but the Super Eagles controlled proceedings. Eric Chelle’s men dominated possession, created the clearer chances, and repeatedly tested the Algerian defence. By contrast, Algeria struggled to impose themselves, often reduced to chasing the game as Nigeria dictated the tempo.
The breakthrough arrived shortly after the restart. Victor Osimhen, who led the attack with authority throughout the match, reacted sharply inside the penalty area to convert from close range, giving Nigeria a deserved lead. Ten minutes later, the Galatasaray striker turned provider, releasing Akor Adams with a perfectly weighted pass. Adams kept his composure, rounded goalkeeper Luca Zidane, and calmly rolled the ball into an empty net to double the advantage.
From that moment, the tie was effectively settled. Algeria failed to recover and did not register a single shot on target until the 80th minute, a statistic that underlined Nigeria’s dominance and defensive discipline.
Beyond the immediate result, the victory carried significant historical importance. According to African football analyst Gary Al-Smith, Nigeria’s scoring consistency across their opening five matches places them alongside Egypt’s celebrated teams of 1974 and 2010—an achievement that further strengthens their credentials as genuine title contenders.
Attention now turns to the semi-final against Morocco on January 14 at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah in Rabat. A win would send Nigeria into consecutive AFCON finals, a remarkable feat for the three-time champions. While history presents mixed omens—Morocco’s only AFCON title came against Nigeria in 1976—the Super Eagles will travel to Rabat full of confidence, determined to extend their golden run and move one step closer to continental glory.
Source: Yen.com.gh
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