‘France had Zidane, Nigeria has Iwobi’ — Nigerians praise Okocha’s nephew after stellar display against Algeria

Alex Iwobi earned glowing praise from Nigerian fans after another masterclass performance helped the Super Eagles overcome Algeria at AFCON 2025.

While Victor Osimhen grabbed the headlines with a goal and an assist, Iwobi’s influence in midfield proved just as decisive in Nigeria’s march into the semi-finals.

Nigeria were simply too strong for Algeria in Marrakech, producing a high-intensity display to secure a deserved 2–0 victory and exact revenge for their 2019 AFCON defeat.

Osimhen’s clinical showing earned him the man-of-the-match award, but it was Iwobi who quietly dictated the rhythm of the game from midfield.

The Fulham playmaker was central to everything Nigeria did going forward, consistently finding pockets of space and unlocking Algeria’s organised defence.

Iwobi provided the pre-assist for both goals, setting the tempo that allowed Osimhen and Akor Adams to thrive. He also created a clear-cut first-half opportunity that Adams should have converted, underlining his creative authority on the night.

Iwobi’s display against Algeria was another chapter in an outstanding AFCON 2025 campaign that is steadily elevating his legacy.

The midfielder has now completed an astonishing 46 through balls at the tournament, more than double the tally of any other Super Eagles player, highlighting his vision and consistency at the highest level.

Unsurprisingly, Nigerian fans were quick to celebrate his influence. One supporter summed up the mood on X by declaring, “France had Zidane, Spain had Iniesta, Netherlands had Cruyff, Nigeria has Alex Iwobi.”

If the Super Eagles go on to lift the trophy, performances like this will ensure Iwobi’s name is etched among Nigeria’s all-time greats.