Nigeria advanced to the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals following a 2-0 quarter-final win against Algeria in Marrakech on Saturday.
The Super Eagles will face tournament hosts Morocco on Wednesday with a place in the final at stake.
The opening 45 minutes saw Nigeria control proceedings without finding the net. Akor Adams missed the clearest opportunity before the break, shooting over the bar when one-on-one with Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of French legend Zinedine.
Victor Osimhen was denied by a crucial tackle from Manchester City’s Rayan Ait-Nouri, whilst Ademola Lookman forced Zidane into action and Calvin Bassey had an effort cleared off the line by Ramy Bensebaini, with a lengthy VAR review confirming the ball had not crossed.
The deadlock was broken just 84 seconds after the restart when Bruno Onyemaechi delivered a cross to the far post, where Osimhen headed downwards into the goal.
The Napoli striker turned provider in the 57th minute, laying the ball off for Adams, who rounded Zidane before slotting into an empty net.
Eric Chelle’s side could have added to their advantage but had to settle for the two-goal margin.
Adams struck the post with a header from close range when the goal appeared certain, wasting a chance to complete the scoring.
The victory ensures Nigeria remain in contention for the continental title, though they will need to overcome hosts Morocco in front of a partisan crowd to reach the final.
Algeria’s tournament ends at the last-eight stage despite their defensive efforts in the opening period.
