Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen has said Nigeria deserved Saturday’s win against Algeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Nigeria’s Super Eagles defeated the Desert Warriors 2-0 to reach the semifinals of the AFCON.

Speaking after the match, the Galatasaray forward, who was named the man of the match after scoring one goal and assisting Adam Akor for the second, stressed that the team prepared well for the game against Algeria, noting that he was happy with the victory over a ‘very good’ side.

“We prepared well for this game, and I am so happy with the team’s performance,” Osimhen said. “We played against a very good country that also has a very good footballing history and a lot of quality players, so playing this type of game, we had to bring out our A-game.”

He added, “From the blast of the whistle to the very end, we gave our best, and we deserved to win.”

After a dominant first-half performance with several missed opportunities to grab the lead, Osimhen broke the deadlock in the 47th minute after brilliantly heading a cross from Bruno Onyemaechi to put Nigeria ahead.

Ten minutes later, the former Napoli player set up Adams well with a through pass inside the box as the Sevilla forward dribbled past goalkeeper Luca Zindane to put the ball into an open net, securing Nigeria’s spot in the final four.

Nigeria will face host nation Morocco for a place in the tournament final in a high-profile clash at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Wednesday.

Commenting on the match-up, Osimhen acknowledged that Morocco has many quality players and a home-crowd advantage.

He, however, maintained that the team is not scared of any opponent and that the players are ready to fight for a win, stating, “It is the same passion, the same determination. Of course, we are going to play against the hosts.”

“We know they have a lot of quality players and a lot of support in front of their massive crowds, of course, but I don’t think we are the kind of team that is timid about any opponents. We will give our absolute best and try to win,” the forward stated.