Nigeria booked a surprise yet convincing place in the AFCON semi-finals after overpowering Algeria with a controlled and mature display.
However, the Super Eagles showed calm authority, patience, and sharp execution when it mattered most.
Nigeria began the contest with clear intent and early pressure. The opening exchanges were dominated by Nigerian movement and pressing.
However, a quick breakthrough proved elusive despite sustained attacking threat.
After weathering that early push, Algeria began to see more of the ball. Moreover, their midfield briefly settled into a passing rhythm.
Yet, those passes rarely carried danger or tested Nigeria’s defensive shape.
Nigeria, meanwhile, remained threatening on transitions and set pieces. In the 28th minute, danger nearly turned into reward. Algeria defender Rami Bensebaini was forced to clear off the line after Calvin Bassey’s flick beat Luca Zidane.
Six minutes later, Nigeria should have taken the lead. Alex Iwobi slipped a clever pass through to Akor Adams. However, with only Zidane to beat, Adams lifted his effort over the bar.
The breakthrough eventually came just after halftime. Bruno Onyemaechi delivered a measured cross into the area. Victor Osimhen rose above his marker and powered a header beyond Zidane.
That goal reflected Nigeria’s first-half dominance. Therefore, Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic was forced to adjust his approach.
Risk was introduced, but it only opened more space.
Nigeria quickly took advantage again.
Iwobi found room and released Osimhen inside the box. Instead of shooting, Osimhen squared the ball for the unmarked Adams.
This time, Adams kept his composure.
He calmly rounded the goalkeeper and rolled the ball home. It was a moment that drained belief from the Algerian side.
Petkovic responded with several substitutions to revive energy. Meanwhile, Algeria showed renewed urgency and attacking drive.
However, their efforts lacked precision in the final third.
Nigeria almost added a third goal soon after.
Osimhen’s cross found Adams, whose header struck the post. Even with that escape, Algeria failed to mount a comeback.
The Super Eagles closed out the match with discipline and confidence. Furthermore, they secured a second straight clean sheet in the tournament. The Nigeria vs Algeria AFCON clash ended with authority, not drama.
Nigeria will now face Morocco on January 14.
Morocco earlier overwhelmed Cameroon in Rabat. The other semi-final will feature Senegal against either Egypt or Côte d’Ivoire.
