The match itself was a masterclass from the Super Eagles, who outplayed the Desert Foxes from start to finish. Victor Osimhen broke the deadlock just two minutes into the second half with a powerful header, silencing the pro-Algerian crowd. Akor Adams then sealed the deal later in the half, capitalizing on a slick assist from Osimhen to make it 2-0. Nigeria's defense, led by the likes of Calvin Bassey, held firm despite Algeria's desperate pushes, ensuring a clean sheet and a well-deserved spot in the semis against host nation Morocco.
Algeria, missing key players like Ismaël Bennacer due to injury and Anis Hadj-Moussa through suspension, struggled to create meaningful chances. The Desert Foxes' frustration boiled over throughout the game, with complaints about one-sided officiating – including uncalled penalties, ignored fouls, and a controversial offside on a Nigerian goal attempt. But sources close to the game argue the refereeing was fair, and Nigeria's superior play was the real difference-maker.
As the final whistle blew around 7:00 PM local time (8:00 PM WAT), the real fireworks began. Shocking videos circulating on X (formerly Twitter) show Algerian players rushing referee Issa Sy, with staff members like Belghali continuing to confront officials even as security intervened. Scuffles broke out between Algerian and Nigerian players, requiring team officials to step in and separate the sides. One clip captures fans attempting to breach the stands and reach the pitch, while reports from Moroccan users describe a group of Algerian supporters clashing with stadium security in fits of rage over the defeat.
From the Nigerian side, fans have raised alarms about pre- and during-match harassment. Multiple posts highlight how Algerian supporters allegedly "hoarded" tickets like "palliatives," limiting access for Super Eagles faithful and leading to bullying incidents in the stands. Calls have flooded social media for the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), and FIFA to investigate, ensuring fair ticket distribution for the upcoming semi-final in Rabat.
This isn't the first time tensions have flared in African football, but the scale here – in the heart of Morocco during a major tournament – has fans buzzing. "Ugly scenes at full time," tweeted journalist Ali Howorth, capturing the moment Algerian players stormed the referee. Another user, Maher Mezahi, described "several scuffles between players" and the referee being "hounded by members of the Algerian delegation."
As of 8:00 PM WAT, the situation at Stade de Marrakech appears to have calmed, with security escorting teams and officials off the premises. No major injuries have been reported, but the fallout could lead to fines, suspensions, or even stadium bans. Nigerian supporters are already gearing up for the semi-final clash with Morocco, hoping for a drama-free affair.
What sparked this post-match meltdown? Was it bad refereeing, or just sour grapes from a outclassed Algeria? Stay tuned as more details emerge – this AFCON is heating up in ways no one expected!