AFCON 2025: Nigeria outmuscles Algeria to meet Morocco in last 4
Super Super Eagles show class against Algeria in their quarter final dwell in the on going AFCON in Morocco. Victor Osimhen was on target and also provided an assist for Nigeria's 2-0 win. A much tougher opponent, host Morocco await them in the semi finals.
Philemon MBALE · Author profile ·
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Nigeria takes offense from start
In this clash between the two teams who have so far won all their matches, the intensity was at the rendezvous. A big rhythm imposed at the beginning by the Super Eagles under the impetus of Mr. Issa Sy. The Senegalese referee only whistles when fouls are obvious. Nigeria has a lot of physical impact.
Lookman, Osimhen and Akoh animated the Nigerian waves up front but it was more of the midfield that created most of the scoring chances. One man stood tall, Alex Iwobi's passing accuracy was unmatches. Nigeria's waves were diluted by a shaky Algerian backline, saved by Luca Zidane who was yet to concede a goal in the competition this far. 0-0 at half time but clearly it would not be long for the Algerian defense to crack owing to pressure.
Oshimen comes to the rescue again
Despite a 15-minute break at halftime, the intensity does not weaken after the return from the locker room. And this time, it’s good for Oshimen. Galatasaray’s striker tricks Luca Zidane with a stuck header, concluding a superb cross by Bruno Onyemaechi. This is the 4th goal for Victor Oshimen in the competition, one shy of Brahim Diaz. Nigeria leads 1-0 in the 47th minute of play. Algeria is obliged to engage in a little more and is not immune to counter-attacks.
Nigeria makes the break thanks to Adams, served ideally by Oshimen (0-2, 56th). The unselfishness of Osimhen in providing Adams with the opportunity was exceptional but not more than the killer pass served to Osimhen by Alex Iwobi.
Vladimir Petkovic is forced to react while his team has not taken a single shot on goal since the start of the match. At the hour of play, the Swiss technician of Bosnian origin throws Boulbina, Bounedjah and Hadj Moussa in place of Zerrouki, Maza and Mahrez, for what could be his last match in AFCON. Baghdad Bounedjah tries his luck from afar for the first Algerian shot in the 80th minute of play.
The Super Eagles remain the most incisive with this big opportunity from Akor Adams who puts his header on the base of the post after a great job by Oshimen. Nigeria logically wins 2-0 with a good impression. They will face Morocco on Wednesday, for a place in the final.