Nigeria delivered a commanding second-half performance to defeat Algeria 2–0, booking a place in the semi-finals and underlining soaring credentials as serious title contenders. Goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams sealed a deserved victory in a match Nigeria controlled both tactically and physically.
After a tightly contested first half, the Super Eagles emerged from the break with renewed intensity. Algeria, who struggled to find rhythm throughout the match, were unable to respond once Nigeria took the lead.
Match Report
Nigeria’s pressing game unsettled Algeria from the opening whistle, forcing mistakes and limiting their ability to build from midfield. Although the first half ended without goals, Nigeria’s dominance was evident movements, ball recovery, and attacking intent.
The breakthrough arrived just two minutes into the second half. Victor Osimhen reacted quickest inside the box to fire Nigeria ahead, igniting celebrations among the travelling supporters. Barely ten minutes later, Akor Adams doubled the lead with a composed finish following a swift counterattack.
From there, Nigeria managed the game expertly, slowing the tempo and denying Algeria any clear opportunities to mount a comeback.
Key Match Timeline
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47’ – Goal (Nigeria): Victor Osimhen opens the scoring
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56’ – Goal (Nigeria): Akor Adams finishes a fast break
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75’–90’: Nigeria control possession and see out the win
Full-Time: Algeria 0–2 Nigeria
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Algeria | Nigeria |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 46% | 54% |
| Total Shots | 8 | 14 |
| Shots on Target | 2 | 6 |
| Corners | 3 | 7 |
| Fouls Committed | 15 | 11 |
| Pass Accuracy | 81% | 87% |
Player Ratings
Nigeria
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Victor Osimhen – 9/10: Dominant performance with a goal and assist
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Akor Adams – 8/10: Clinical finishing and intelligent movement
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Defence – 7.5/10: Organised and disciplined throughout
Algeria
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Goalkeeper – 6.5/10: Prevented a heavier defeat
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Midfield – 5.5/10: Struggled under pressure
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Attack – 5/10: Limited impact and few clear chances
Post-Match Quotes
Nigeria Head Coach:
“We stayed patient in the first half and trusted our plan. The goals came because the players believed and executed exactly what we worked on.”
Victor Osimhen (Nigeria Forward):
“This was about teamwork. I’m happy to score, but the most important thing is that we’re moving closer to our goal.”
Algeria Head Coach:
“We didn’t respond well after conceding. Against a team like Nigeria, you get punished for small mistakes.”
What’s Next?
Nigeria advance to the semi-finals, carrying confidence and momentum after a mature and controlled performance. Algeria, meanwhile, exit the tournament with questions to answer after failing to match their opponents’ intensity and organisation.
