Nigeria’s front two fired the Super Eagles into the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-finals with a commanding 2-0 win over Algeria, setting up a clash with Morocco.

Algeria started the match strongly under Éric Chelle, showing early intent. Ademola Lookman cut inside and unleashed a powerful strike straight at goalkeeper Luca Zidane. Shortly after, Lookman nearly set up Victor Osimhen, but a perfectly-timed challenge from Rayan Aït-Nouri denied what looked like a certain goal.

Nigeria continued to dominate, coming close to opening the scoring when Calvin Bassey’s delicate finish from a well-delivered free-kick was cleared off the line. By the end of the first half, Algeria had yet to register a single shot on target, highlighting the Super Eagles’ control of the game.

The breakthrough came shortly after the interval. Osimhen, who now has 35 international goals, rose to meet a pinpoint cross from Bruno Onyemaechi, heading Nigeria into a deserved lead.

The lead was doubled soon after as Akor Adams was set up by Osimhen’s square ball, brilliantly delivered by Alex Iwobi. Adams’ third goal in two knockout games underscored Nigeria’s clinical finishing, as Algeria struggled to create any meaningful chances in the second half. Nigeria converted two of their three major opportunities while keeping a clean sheet.

The victory keeps Nigeria on course for their fourth AFCON title, with a semi-final against 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finalists Morocco, who defeated Cameroon on Friday. The other side of the draw will see either Senegal or the winner of Egypt vs. Ivory Coast reach the final four, setting up an exciting conclusion to the tournament.