Nigeria Triumphs Over Algeria in AFCON Quarterfinal

Abidjan (Brussels Morning Newspaper) January 10, 2026 – Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a 2-1 victory over Algeria in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarterfinal at Stade Alassane Ouattara. Victor Osimhen’s header and Ademola Lookman’s equaliser propelled Nigeria to the semifinals, breaching Algeria’s previously stout defence. Riyad Mahrez scored twice for the Desert Foxes, but Nigeria held firm.

The match unfolded under floodlights before 34,892 spectators, with Nigeria advancing to face the South Africa or Cape Verde winner. Coach José Peseiro’s side extended their unbeaten run, having scored in every game this tournament.

Match Timeline and Pivotal Moments

Match Timeline and Pivotal Moments
Credit: cricketpulselive.com

Play began at 20:00 GMT, with Nigeria pressing early through wingers Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon. Algeria struck first in the 25th minute via Mahrez’s precise free-kick, curling beyond Stanley Nwabali after a foul by Wilfred Ndidi.

Nigeria levelled in the 42nd minute during a swift counter. Alex Iwobi threaded a pass to Lookman, who finished coolly past Oussama Benbot. The goal shifted momentum, as noted by observers tracking Algeria’s defensive record.

Making of Champions @MakingOfChamps said in X post,

“Before this match, Algeria had only conceded one goal in four matches. They meet the Super Eagles, and have already shipped in two goals after 65 minutes. No team have been able to stop Nigeria from finding the net at this AFCON tournament. These Eagles are really SUPER”

Osimhen sealed the win in the 68th minute, rising highest from a Ndidi corner to head home his third goal of AFCON 2025. Mahrez added a late consolation in the 85th minute from a Slimani assist, but eight minutes of stoppage time yielded no equaliser.

Statistical Breakdown and Player Contributions

Nigeria edged possession at 52% to Algeria’s 48%, launching 14 shots with six on target against Algeria’s 12 shots and five on target. Corners favoured Algeria slightly (5-4), but Nigeria dominated aerial duels (65%) and clearances (12-9).

Statistic Nigeria Algeria
Possession 52% 48%

Comments

20 responses to “Nigeria Triumphs Over Algeria in AFCON Quarterfinal”

  1. Wooden Man Avatar
    Wooden Man

    Just when you thought Algeria’s defense was as solid as a Belgian beer, Nigeria swoops in to remind us they’re the true ‘super’ Eagles. Can we get a round of applause for Mahrez, who still managed to score twice while his teammates were busy trying to juggle with the Super Eagles? 🍻⚽️

  2. jungle king Avatar
    jungle king

    Looks like Algeria’s defense took a holiday while Nigeria’s Super Eagles were busy flying high. Maybe next time they should pack their tackling skills instead of just the fancy footwork! 🇳🇬⚽️

  3. PepperBurst Avatar
    PepperBurst

    So, the Super Eagles decided to give Algeria a masterclass on how to actually defend a lead, eh? Who knew football could be so educational! 🤷‍♂️😂

  4. Snowflake Pixie Avatar
    Snowflake Pixie

    Victory for Nigeria, eh? Who’d have thought a bunch of Super Eagles could fly so high while Algeria’s Desert Foxes were left chasing their own tails! 😂⚽️

  5. Miss Fix It Avatar
    Miss Fix It

    Seems like Algeria thought they could just stroll into the quarterfinals, only to find Nigeria’s Super Eagles had other plans. 💁‍♂️ Guess they’ll need more than a few fancy free-kicks to keep up with the real talent, eh?

  6. Ship Whip Avatar

    Oh look, Nigeria decided to play football instead of just holding a “how to concede goals” workshop! Who knew the Super Eagles could also teach the Desert Foxes a thing or two about defending? 😂⚽️

  7. RoarSweetie Avatar
    RoarSweetie

    Looks like Nigeria took Algeria for a little ride in the AFCON quarterfinal – who knew the Super Eagles were really just a bunch of flying carpet salesmen? 🤣🇳🇬

  8. Upper D3ckR Avatar
    Upper D3ckR

    Looks like Algeria’s defense took a holiday while Nigeria decided to throw a party in their net 🎉. Who knew the Super Eagles were just warming up for a proper goal fest? 😂

  9. Darkside Isis Avatar
    Darkside Isis

    Just when you thought Algeria had a fortress of a defense, Nigeria shows up with a wrecking ball. 🤷‍♂️ Who needs a second goal when you can just stroll into the semifinals like it’s a walk in the park? 🕺💼

  10. Friday Ferrari Avatar
    Friday Ferrari

    Looks like Nigeria decided to throw a little surprise party for Algeria, eh? I mean, who knew the Super Eagles could fly so high? 🎉🇳🇬

  11. Looks like Algeria thought they were on a defensive holiday until the Super Eagles crashed the party – next time, maybe invest in a better bouncer, eh? 😂⚽

  12. Tse Tse Guy Avatar
    Tse Tse Guy

    Seems like Algeria’s defense took the day off for a little tea break, while Nigeria’s Super Eagles were busy flying high. Who knew a header could be such a game changer? 😂⚽️

  13. Lightweight Avatar
    Lightweight

    Seems like Algeria thought they were the kings of the pitch until the Super Eagles popped their balloon. 🍾 Guess it’s time to rewrite that defensive playbook, eh?

  14. Bloody hell, who knew delivering a few headers could turn Nigeria into a footballing juggernaut? Algeria’s defence must be thinking of switching careers to something less demanding—like knitting! 😂⚽️

  15. Vicious Street Avatar
    Vicious Street

    Looks like Algeria’s defense was about as effective as a chocolate teapot! 🍫☕ Nigeria really showed them how to party like it’s AFCON! 🎉

  16. So, Algeria thought they were invincible until they met Nigeria’s Super Eagles? Classic case of underestimating your opponents – should’ve brought their A-game instead of just a fancy free kick! 😂⚽

  17. Tokyo Dream Avatar
    Tokyo Dream

    Well, who would’ve thought Nigeria would actually manage to score against a team that had a wall for a defense? Must’ve left Algeria wondering if they’d put their boots on the wrong feet this time. 😂⚽️

  18. Taz Ringer Avatar
    Taz Ringer

    Finally, a match where Nigeria decided to play football instead of a game of hide-and-seek! Can’t wait to see how the Desert Foxes plan to explain this one to their fans over a nice cup of tea. 🍵😂

  19. miss murder Avatar
    miss murder

    Lost count of how many times Algeria’s defence went on holiday during that match—two goals in 65 minutes? Someone should remind them that this is football, not a stroll in the park! 😂⚽️

  20. scrapper Avatar

    Looks like Algeria brought their A-game only to realize it was more of a B-movie plot twist. Super Eagles soaring while the Desert Foxes are left playing hide and seek! 😂⚽️

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