No Shot on Target!: How Nigeria Caged Algeria to Seal 11th AFCON Quarterfinal Win!
The Super Eagles of Nigeria delivered a commanding performance to defeat Algeria 2–0 in the quarterfinals of the AFCON 2025, booking a semi-final clash with host nation Morocco and extending their remarkable record at this stage of the competition.
According to Opta, Nigeria have now won 11 of their 12 AFCON quarterfinal matches since the stage was introduced in 1992. Their only defeat came against Ghana in 2008, underlining the team’s consistency in navigating this crucial round.
Algeria, unbeaten before this clash, were completely shut down. For the first time in 30 AFCON matches since Opta began analysing the competition in 2010, the Fennecs failed to attempt a single shot in the first half. They managed just two off-target efforts late in the game, a testament to Nigeria’s defensive discipline and tactical organization.
Nigeria’s breakthrough came in the 47th minute when Victor Osimhen headed home a precise cross from Bruno Onyemaechi. Seven minutes after the restart, Osimhen turned provider, setting up Akor Adams to score his second goal of the tournament and seal the victory.
The win was especially satisfying for Nigeria, who were eliminated by Algeria in the 2019 AFCON semi-final courtesy of a last-minute free-kick from Riyad Mahrez. This time, Chelle’s men ensured there was no repeat, combining attacking flair with defensive solidity to cage the Fennecs.
With Algeria’s unbeaten run shattered and Nigeria’s quarterfinal dominance reaffirmed, the Super Eagles now march into the semi-finals brimming with confidence. Their next challenge comes against Morocco, the host nation, in what promises to be another high-stakes encounter.
