The Super Eagles produced a masterclass to see off Algeria 2-0 in the quarter-final of the Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday at the Grand Stade de Marrakech.
Nigeria dominated proceedings from the outset and could have gone ahead twice in the first half, but failed to make their chances count despite creating several clear openings.
However, the Eagles raised their level after the break and eventually got their rewards, with goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams sealing a deserved victory and sending Nigeria into the semi-finals. They will now face hosts Morocco, who edged past Cameroon in their own quarter-final a day earlier.
To rate the performances, Footy-Africa teamed up with former Nigeria U-23 international Edward Weng to identify the standout performers and those who did not quite hit the same level.
Weng: “Everyone played well against the Algerians, and it is difficult to pick those who were the best and those who did not do so well. However, here are my picks.”
AFCON 2025: Schedule, results and standings of the Africa Cup of Nations
Top performers
Victor Osimhen – 9.0
Weng: “The striker was a deserved Man of the Match. Victor Osimhen scored a goal and provided an assist to calm concerns after the controversy in the Round of 16.
Osimhen was a constant worry for the Algerian defence, with Ramy Bensebaini and Aïssa Mandi struggling to contain him.
Fittingly, he ended the game as captain and with the Man of the Match award.”
Bright Osayi-Samuel – 8.5
Weng: “The full-back was outstanding throughout. Bright Osayi-Samuel ran the right flank like a player enjoying a kickabout, with his pace, ball-carrying and quick passing exchanges troubling Algeria every time he surged forward.
He could have had two assists had Akor Adams been more clinical. Perhaps his best performance in a Super Eagles shirt.”
ICYMI: Here’s how we booked our place in the semifinals of #AFCON2025.
The win too sweet our belle 😌
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) January 11, 2026
Alex Iwobi – 9.0
Weng: “Another game, another masterclass from the midfield schemer. Alex Iwobi‘s line-breaking pass to Osimhen cut out the entire Algerian defence and led to a key moment in the game.
His pressing, alongside Bruno, almost produced a first-half goal. The heartbeat of the side — his uncle, Jay-Jay Okocha, would have been proud.”
Lowest ratings
Weng: “To be honest, it is not really fair to label anyone poor because the whole team did well. But if I must pick players who were less impressive, I will mention only two.”
Wilfred Ndidi – 6.0
Weng: “Nigeria will miss Wilfred Ndidi against Morocco after his needless yellow card, which overshadowed what had been a steady display. It could prove a defining moment, with Raphael Onyedika expected to step in.”
See as jersey be like Afang… How the ball no go sweet? You sef check am nau… 🇳🇬💚#TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 | #WeCelebrateDifferent pic.twitter.com/cOLEOKgaYL
— TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 (@CAF_Online) January 10, 2026
Stanley Nwabali – 6.0
Weng: “Stanley Nwabali had little to do but indulged in some unnecessary theatrics and picked up a booking — his second of the tournament — leaving questions about his game management.”
