‘They were stronger than us’ – Algeria vice captain admits the Foxes couldn’t match Super Eagles

Algeria vice-captain Aissa Mandi has openly acknowledged that the Desert Foxes were second best against Nigeria’s Super Eagles in their Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final clash on Saturday, admitting his side failed to put the Nigerians under real pressure.

Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams' goals were the difference as Super Eagles defeated the Foxes to book a place in the semi-final.

Speaking to reporters after the defeat, the experienced defender praised Nigeria’s quality and maturity, describing the Super Eagles as a team reaching its peak at the business end of the tournament.

“We’re disappointed, but we came up against a strong Nigerian team, one that’s reaching its peak and is well-rounded,” Mandi said.

He added, “We didn’t play the way we should have, but these things happen in a quarter-final.”

Nigeria dominated large spells of the encounter, controlling the tempo and restricting Algeria’s usually dangerous attack, a reality Mandi admitted was difficult to fully explain immediately after the final whistle.

“It’s hard to say what went wrong in the heat of the moment. We have to analyse the game and grow from it. We faced a strong team, and we didn’t manage to put them under pressure. It was a deserved victory for them,” he explained.

The match was not without controversy, as Algeria appealed for a penalty in the first half after the ball struck defender Semi Ajayi’s hand inside the box. The referee waved away the claims, a decision that sparked debate among players and fans.

Mandi suggested the moment could have altered the flow of the game, while stopping short of blaming the officials for the defeat.

“I think the penalty that wasn’t given could have changed the game. But we had to keep a cool head regarding the refereeing decisions and stay calm about our football. Nigeria didn’t need help from the referee to compete in this match. They have the quality to do so, but it’s a bit of a shame,” he said.

Nigeria’s victory sends the Super Eagles into the latter stages of the competition as they continue their quest for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title. They are now set to face host nation Morocco in a high-stakes showdown in Rabat on Wednesday.