The Nigeria vs Algeria quarterfinal match in AFCON 2025 ended in a 2-0 win for the former. The Super Eagles booked their place in the last four by comfortably winning the Nigeria vs Algeria match on Saturday, January 10.
Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams scored the two goals for Nigeria in the second half after the first 45 minutes failed to produce any goal. However, it was Alex Iwobi’s class that was apparent in Nigeria’s win on the day.
Who Dominated Nigeria vs Algeria?
Nigeria was clearly the more dominant team in the Nigeria vs Algeria match. They had 59% ball-possession in the match and had 12 shots against Algeria’s two. However, they failed to break open the resolute Algerian defence in the first half. Alex Iwobi played a pivotal role in the midfield in the Nigeria vs Algeria match.
Iwobi played in central midfield, and his composure on the ball coupled with his brilliant passing set the tone for Nigeria’s victory. It was Iwobi’s through pass that set Osimhen free in the final third for Nigeria’s second goal before the latter played the ball to Adams.
Iwobi played box-to-box at times after Nigeria scored their second, frequently falling back to their penalty box to help the defence. After primarily attacking through the wings in the first half, the Nigerians spread the ball through short passes in the midfield more often in the second half and Iwobi played a key role in it.
Iwobi is one of the most experienced players in the Nigerian team. He has already earned 94 caps for his country, scoring 10 goals in them. The Nigerian, who will turn 30 this year, has also played for Premier League clubs, Arsenal, Everton and Fulham.
Iwobi has played in more than 380 matches for the three English clubs. His vast experience thus comes in handy for his national team as well. The Fulham player has mostly played as a fast winger in his club career, but is surely enjoying his role as a creator in Nigeria’s midfield.
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Super Eagles With a Tough Challenge in the Semi-Final
Nigeria will take on hosts Morocco in the semi-final on Wednesday, January 14. The hosts have been in rampant form in the tournament and boasts star players like Brahim Diaz, Achraf Hakimi and Noussair Mazraoui, who play their club football for European giants.
Hence, the task will not be easy for the Super Eagles in the semifinal. Nigeria have won the AFCON title three times, with their last title triumph coming in 2013. If they are to win their fourth title, Nigeria will have to rely a lot on Iwobi.
Against a slick Moroccan team, Iwobi’s ability to retain possession and deliver accurate passes from midfield will be key components in Nigeria’s game. As the Nigeria vs Algeria match pointed out, the 29-year-old is one of the best midfielders on the continent.
Still, a tougher test will be there on Wednesday. Iwobi’s class could once again make a difference, just as it did in the Nigeria vs Algeria match.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Shengolpixs
Recording Date: 10.01.2026
