In a thrilling display of football prowess, Nigeria's Super Eagles secured their spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) semi-finals with a commanding 2-0 victory over Algeria. The West African team's dominance was evident from the start, with Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams leading the charge. But here's where it gets controversial... While Algeria's strong support in the stands contrasted with Nigeria's control on the pitch, the North Africans struggled to make their presence felt in the first half. Most of the game took place in Algeria's half, with Nigeria's high pressing, possession, and pin-back tactics keeping the Fennecs at bay. Yet, despite this territorial dominance, Algeria failed to score in the first half, with Ademola Lookman's low shot saved and Ramy Bensebaini clearing Calvin Bassey's volley off the line. However, Nigeria emerged with renewed purpose after the break, and Osimhen was left unmarked inside the six-yard box to convert a pinpoint cross from Bruno Onyemaechi, scoring his fourth goal at these finals. This goal was the first conceded by Algeria's goalkeeper, Luca Zidane, at the tournament, and he was soon called into action again to keep out another low header from Galatasaray striker Osimhen. The Super Eagles then netted their 14th goal at this tournament when Alex Iwobi unlocked the defence and Osimhen unselfishly squared for Adams to finish with composure. Nigeria's back line kept the Fennecs at bay, with the influence of Riyad Mahrez, who announced on the eve of the quarter-final that this would be his last Afcon, limited before he was replaced after an hour. Two-time winners Algeria had exited in the group stage at the past two editions, and Vladmir Petkovic's men were not able to find a way back into the match despite winning their first four games in Morocco. Nigeria heads into their 16th Afcon semi-final, and will now need to get past the hosts, who beat Cameroon 2-0 on Friday, in front of a fervent home crowd at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium if they are to win their fourth continental title. And this is the part most people miss... While Nigeria's attacking machine was on top, Algeria's exit in the group stage at the past two editions raises questions about their ability to compete with the top teams in Africa. With the hosts, Morocco, now standing in their way, Nigeria will need to bring their A-game if they are to emerge victorious and claim the continental title.
