Algeria vs Nigeria: Osimhen inspired Super Eagles cruise to AFCON 2025 semifinal

Nigeria's Super Eagles have stormed into the AFCON 2025 semi-finals after a clinical performance dismantled Algeria’s resilient defence on Saturday evening.

Galatasaray's main man Victor Osimhen was the man of the match in a match defined by high-intensity drama and a long-awaited revenge for 2019, the Super Eagles secured a 2–0 victory in Marrakech.

Nigeria signalled their intent from the kickoff, asserting early dominance with a high press that left the Algerian midfield breathless. Controlling 68% of the possession in the opening 45 minutes, the Eagles looked certain to score.

The game’s first major flashpoint arrived in the 31st minute. Following a dangerous Ademola Lookman corner, Calvin Bassey managed to square the ball across the face of the goal. 

Amidst a chaotic scramble, the ball appeared to cross the line before being hacked away by Ramy Bensebaini. After a lengthy VAR check, the goal was not awarded, as technology showed the ball had not fully cleared the line, much to the frustration of the Nigerian bench.

The Eagles’ profligacy continued in the 37th minute. Alex Iwobi exploited a poor clearance from Luca Zidane to set up Akor Adams one-on-one. 

However, Adams’ attempted chip over the advancing Zidane lacked composure, sailing agonisingly over the bar. Despite the 0–0 scoreline at the break, Nigeria had firmly established their physical and tactical superiority.

If the first half was defined by missed opportunities, the second was a lesson in clinical finishing.

• 47' | The Breakthrough (1–0)

Just two minutes after the restart, Bruno Onyemaechi delivered a pinpoint cross from the left. Victor Osimhen showed why he is Africa's premier marksman, hanging in the air with incredible hang-time to power a downward header through the legs of Luca Zidane.

• 57' | The Doubler (2–0):

Ten minutes later, any lingering fears of an Algerian comeback were buried. 

In a moment that proved the squad’s unity, Osimhen was released behind the defence but unselfishly squared the ball for Akor Adams. The Sevilla striker rounded Zidane with ease and tapped into an empty net, sparking wild celebrations.

Nigeria has booked a high-stakes semi-final showdown against hosts Morocco on Wednesday, January 14. With 14 goals scored in five matches, the Super Eagles are now the undisputed favourites to secure their fourth continental crown.