The Super Eagles of Nigeria beat the Fennec Foxes of Algeria 2-0 in the AFCON 2025 quarterfinal on Saturday to reach the semi-finals, earning revenge for a defeat seven years ago.
The Super Eagles took the lead in the 47th minute when striker Victor Osimhen met a brilliant cross from the left by fullback Bruno Onyemaechi.
Osimhen rose highest, suspended himself for a few seconds, and guided a sublime header past Luca Zidane in the Algeria goal.
The move came after sustained pressure and a neat pass from midfield that released Onyemaechi into space.
The second and decisive goal arrived ten minutes later, with Osimhen being involved again.
In the 57th minute, Alexander Iwobi released Osimhen after getting the ball from the defence. Osimhen strode forward with the ball for a few feet, before unselfishly squaring the ball to Akor Adam's, who rounded Zidane and tapped into an empty net.
The strike, which eventually proved to be the match winner, sent the Nigeria fans into jubilant celebration.
Algeria, who eliminated Nigeria in the semi-finals of the 2019 AFCON, pushed for a way back into the game.
They met a resolute Super Eagles defence every time, led by Calvin Bassey, which meant that they could not find the target.
The Super Eagles defended with discipline and used brilliant midfield linkups and quick counters to keep the visitors at bay.
Fans have described the win as sweet revenge for the painful loss in 2019, and Nigeria now prepares for a semi-final tie against hosts Morocco.
The match finished 2-0.
