The Algerian national team suffered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Nigeria in Marrakech, in their quarter-final match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The match was marred by controversial refereeing decisions, particularly in the first half when referee Issa Sy refused to award a clear penalty to Algeria for a handball by the Super Eagles.
Nigeria dominated the first half, with Victor Osimhen and his teammates squandering numerous scoring opportunities. Goalkeeper Luca Zidane’s outstanding performances were crucial in preventing Algeria from taking the lead.
However, at the start of the second half, under intense Nigerian pressure, Victor Osimhen headed home the opening goal in the 47th minute. Zidane then inexplicably equalized for Nigeria.
فيكتور أوسيمين يفتتح التسجيل لنيجيريا 🇳🇬⚽️#كأس_أمم_إفريقيا | #الجزائر_نيجيريا pic.twitter.com/TiTC8bBFzy
— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS) January 10, 2026
Just ten minutes later, Osimhen provided the assist for Akor Adams to score Nigeria’s second goal, effectively ending Algeria’s chances. They failed to create any significant threat to the Super Eagles’ goal throughout the 90 minutes.
Nigeria’s total goals in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) so far stand at 14 in 5 matches, their best tally in the tournament’s history.
Osimhen’s goal was his fourth in the AFCON, placing him second in the top scorers’ list behind Morocco’s Brahim Diaz, who has 5 goals.
With this result, Nigeria avenged their famous 2-1 defeat to Algeria in the 2019 semi-final in Egypt.
Nigeria has now reached the semi-finals, where they will face Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium next Wednesday.
