Desert Foxes Boss Praises Osimhen, Adams & Nigeria’s Technical & Physical Edge in Marrakech Quarter-Final.

Vladimir Petkovic

Algeria head coach Vladimir Petkovic was full of praise for Nigeria’s Super Eagles following their commanding 2-0 quarter-final victory at the Stade de Marrakech on January 10, 2026. The Desert Foxes bowed out of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 after second-half strikes from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams sealed Nigeria’s place in the semi-finals.

Osimhen broke the deadlock just two minutes into the second half, powering home a brilliant header from Bruno Onyemaechi’s perfect cross. Ten minutes later, Adams doubled the lead with a composed finish, rounding goalkeeper Luca Zidane before slotting into an empty net.

In his post-match press conference, Petkovic was gracious in defeat and gave full credit to the Super Eagles.

“Well done to Nigeria, they were better than us,” the Bosnian tactician admitted. “In the first half, we were too scattered. In the second half, it was a little better. Our opponents showed their technical and physical qualities. We weren’t able to play our dribbling game in the first half.”

Petkovic also explained his tactical approach: “We played with three or four forwards, but the problem was that the balls weren’t getting to us. I didn’t choose to play with three at the back because I needed players up front. I had several ideas, but I chose this one.”

Nigeria’s performance was clinical, disciplined, and full of quality under coach Éric Chelle. With Alex Iwobi pulling the strings in midfield, a solid defense led by Calvin Bassey, and the lethal attacking duo of Osimhen and Adams, the Super Eagles looked every bit the title contenders.

Next up for Nigeria is a blockbuster semi-final against hosts Morocco on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. The Atlas Lions advanced with a 2-0 win over Cameroon (goals from Brahim Díaz and Ismaël Saibari) and will have the full backing of a passionate home crowd.

This clash promises fireworks – Nigeria’s form against Morocco’s home advantage and quality.

Respect from Petkovic highlights just how strong Nigeria looked on the night. The Super Eagles are marching on with confidence.