The Super Eagles of Nigeria delivered a commanding performance to secure a 2-0 victory over the Fennec Foxes of Algeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final clash at Stade de Marrakech. This decisive win propels Nigeria into a highly anticipated semi-final showdown against tournament hosts, Morocco. The match, initially expected to be a fiercely contested battle due to the quality of both teams and Algeria's strong fan support, saw Nigeria dominate from start to finish, demonstrating clinical finishing and resolute defence.

The first half witnessed both teams vying for control, with Nigeria creating several dangerous opportunities. However, it was in the second half that the Super Eagles truly soared. Just two minutes after the restart, star striker Victor Osimhen broke the deadlock in the 47th minute with a powerful header from Bruno Onyemaechi's pinpoint cross. This marked Osimhen's fourth AFCON 2025 goal, igniting the stadium and sending Nigerian supporters into raptures.

Nigeria continued to press their advantage, and it wasn't long before they doubled their lead. In the 57th minute, Akor Adams capitalised on a swift counter-attack. Following a defence-splicing pass from Alex Iwobi that set Osimhen on his way, the ex-Napoli man selflessly laid the ball into Adams' path. Adams then cut past Zidane before expertly slotting a left-footed shot into an empty net, making it 2-0.

Manager Eric Chelle's strategic structure has been credited with transforming the three-time AFCON winners, bringing out the best in each player. Under Chelle, key players like Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams, Calvin Bassey, Victor Osimhen, and Alex Iwobi are all thriving. The team demonstrated superb defensive and offensive capabilities, with Algeria recording almost no shots, on or off target, until the 75th minute. This performance serves as a clear statement of intent to other nations regarding Nigeria's title aspirations.

Individual performances were outstanding across the board. Victor Osimhen, undoubtedly Nigeria's best player on the night, showcased a calmer demeanour and played with immense energy and intensity. Beyond his opening goal and assist for Adams, he also took on the captain's armband when Wilfred Ndidi was substituted due to injury.

The full-backs, Bright Osayi-Samuel and Bruno Onyemaechi, were particularly brilliant in both defence and attack. Onyemaechi not only provided the assist for Osimhen's opener but also effectively marked Algeria's Riyad Mahrez, rendering him ineffective. Osayi-Samuel's strong defensive play, including winning 70% of his duels and being the most fouled player, coupled with his attacking runs, proved a constant thorn for the Algerians. His stepping up was crucial given the injuries to Ola Aina and Benjamin Frederick.

In midfield, Alex Iwobi's passing excellence was evident, making the team tick. His line-breaking passes were instrumental in both goals, dictating the pace and dominating the midfield with exemplary work rate. Frank Onyeka maintained his excellent tournament form, controlling the midfield with strong marking, good passing, and relentless tackling. Captain Wilfred Ndidi also had a brilliant showing, offering no breathing space to the Algerians before his substitution.

Defensively, Stanley Nwabali had a relatively quiet day but was reliable when called upon, dominating his box and showing decent ball usage. Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi formed a solid central defensive partnership. Ajayi, despite earlier doubts, played brilliantly, contributing to the attack while remaining solid at the back. He later shared that a shared sense of purpose, fueled by the disappointment of the previous AFCON, is driving the Super Eagles. Ajayi stressed that while they played their