Despite a vociferous crowd of 32,452 largely supporting Algeria, the Super Eagles showed no signs of intimidation. Nigeria dominated possession in the first half but struggled to convert their opportunities, leaving the scoreline goalless at halftime. The breakthrough came within two minutes of the restart when Alex Iwobi’s cross found Bruno Onyemaechi, and Osimhen’s precise header found the net.
The 2023 African Player of the Year continued his fine form by setting up Adams just before the hour mark. Osimhen’s unselfish square pass allowed the Sevilla striker to round Algeria’s goalkeeper Luca Zidane and finish calmly, extending Nigeria’s lead and effectively putting the match out of reach. The win marked Osimhen’s fourth goal in four matches at this tournament, ending a seven-game AFCON goal drought prior to the competition.
Algeria, runners-up at the 2019 AFCON and a side that had beaten Nigeria en route to lifting the trophy in Egypt, struggled to impose themselves despite a talented attacking trio featuring Riyad Mahrez, Ibrahim Maza, and Mohamed Amoura. They failed to register a single shot in the first half, and even when presented with chances, the finishing was wayward. Defensive interventions by Nigeria, including a last-minute block from Ramy Bensebaini, kept Algeria at bay.
Nigeria now leads the tournament’s scoring charts with 14 goals, a testament to their potent attack. Akor Adams could have added to his tally, hitting the post late in the game, while Algeria never truly threatened a comeback. Minor on-field tensions flared at full-time, but the focus for the Super Eagles quickly shifts to the semi-final clash in Rabat.
After narrowly missing out on World Cup qualification, Nigeria is aiming to capture a fourth continental crown, hoping to transform past frustrations into triumph on Moroccan soil. Their semi-final against the host nation promises to be a stern test in front of a likely hostile crowd, but Sunday’s performance showcased a side brimming with confidence and attacking firepower.