Nigeria moved decisively closer to another Africa Cup of Nations title challenge on Saturday, January 10, 2026, defeating Algeria 2–0 in a quarter-final that was tactically controlled before being clinically decided.
Victor Osimhen struck immediately after the restart and then turned provider for Akor Adams as the Super Eagles converted dominance into a commanding second-half victory.
A first half defined by Nigeria’s control — and Algeria’s frustration
The opening 45 minutes ended goalless, but Nigeria were the more assured side throughout.
Compact in shape and disciplined in execution, the Super Eagles restricted Algeria’s ability to play through midfield while springing purposeful transitions whenever possession turned over.
Algeria struggled to impose rhythm on the contest and resorted to tactical fouls as Nigeria repeatedly won duels and second balls.
That frustration told in the referee’s notebook, with Ramiz Zerrouki and Mohamed Amoura both booked before the break.
Nigeria did not create a flurry of clear-cut chances, but the balance of play was unmistakable.
Their defensive organisation forced Algeria wide and deep, while their own wide outlets offered constant threat. It was a first half that felt like a prelude rather than a stalemate.
The restart sucker punch: Osimhen breaks it open
Any hope Algeria had of resetting the contest at halftime evaporated almost immediately.
Moments after the restart, Bruno Onyemaechi delivered a teasing cross from the left flank. Osimhen attacked it with conviction, rising above his marker and directing the ball goalwards as Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane hesitated and failed to recover.
Nigeria led 1–0, and the match tilted sharply in their favour.
It was an archetypal Osimhen moment — aggression, timing, and decisiveness rolled into one. More importantly, it rewarded Nigeria’s patience and forced Algeria into a reactive posture they never fully escaped.
From scorer to creator: Osimhen sets up Akor Adams
Barely had Algeria regrouped when Nigeria struck again.
With defenders now drawn toward him, Osimhen demonstrated his growing all-round influence. Rather than forcing a shot, he released a perfectly weighted pass into the path of Akor Adams, who finished calmly to double Nigeria’s advantage and all but settle the contest.
The sequence captured Nigeria’s superiority: Osimhen’s physical presence destabilising the defence, Adams providing the composure to apply the finishing touch.
Algeria run out of answers as Nigeria manage the finish
At 2–0 down, Algeria needed urgency and invention. They found neither in sufficient measure.
Nigeria’s defensive structure held firm, denying central penetration and limiting Algeria to speculative efforts. The Super Eagles slowed the tempo intelligently, managing possession and territory rather than inviting unnecessary risk.
What followed was not a dramatic closing act, but a professional one. Nigeria saw out the match with authority, preserving both their clean sheet and their momentum.
What the win means: Nigeria march on with belief
The victory sends Nigeria into the AFCON semi-finals, where they will face hosts Morocco in Rabat. It promises to be a formidable challenge — against a strong opponent and a partisan crowd — but Nigeria will take confidence from the maturity and control displayed against Algeria.
With Victor Osimhen delivering both goals and leadership, and Akor Adams providing decisive support, the Super Eagles look increasingly like a side built not just to compete, but to win.
