AFCON 2025: Ex-Arsenal star of Algerian descent hails Super Eagles victory against Desert Foxes

Former Arsenal and Manchester City star Samir Nasri has lauded the Super Eagles for their incredibly dominant performance against the Desert Foxes of Algeria, highlighting their superior physical and tactical application in the game.

The Super Eagles soared past their latest opposition, Algeria, beating them 2-0 to reach the semi-final of the Africa Cup of Nations, setting up a clash against host nation Morocco in the final four. 

The performance from Eric Chelle’s side tintillated not only fans and followers of the Super Eagles, with viewers from other African countries, including the vanquished Algeria, testifying to the brilliance of the three-time AFCON winners’ display.

Nasri, though a France international during his playing days, which lasted from 2004 to 2020 (Les Bleus career from 2007 to 2011, 41 caps), is of Algerian descent, and even he admitted to enjoying Nigeria’s showing, stating that they deserved the victory.

“Bravo to the Nigerian team,” the former Marseille man tweeted. “Very impressive in terms of physical athleticism and tactical play, well-deserved based on the content of the match.”

• According to Opta, "Algeria did not attempt a single shot in the first half of a CAF Africa Cup of Nations match for the first time in 30 games since Opta began analysing the competition (2010)."

• Nigeria dominated possession (57%)

• According to Sofascore, the Super Eagles created five big chances to Algeria's zero.

• The Super Eagles had 13 shots to Algeria's three. None of Algeria's shots were on target.

• Nigeria's goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali had no saves to make, while Luca Zidane was forced into action three times on the other end.