Nigeria's Super Eagles have received a significant boost in confidence ahead of their crucial Africa Cup of Nations semifinal clash against host nation Morocco, with defender Semi Ajayi issuing a stern warning. Following a disciplined 2-0 victory over Algeria in the quarterfinals, Ajayi expressed unwavering belief that the team is equipped to handle the intense pressure of a partisan Moroccan crowd.
Building Momentum with a Solid Defence
The foundation for Nigeria's confidence was laid in the quarterfinal match against Algeria on Saturday, January 10, at the Grand Stade de Marrakech. The Super Eagles delivered a masterclass in defensive organisation, securing their second clean sheet of the tournament. Goals from star striker Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams sealed a comprehensive 2-0 win, ending Algeria's unbeaten run in the competition.
Central to this resilient performance was the centre-back partnership of Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey. The duo were imperious, cutting out attacks early and ensuring goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali had a relatively quiet evening. Ajayi later highlighted that effective communication was the key to neutralising the threat posed by the 2019 AFCON champions.
Ajayi's Warning: We've Been Here Before
Looking ahead to the semifinal showdown scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, Ajayi dismissed concerns about the intimidating environment awaiting the team. He pointed to the Algeria game as a perfect dress rehearsal, noting that the stadium felt overwhelmingly in favour of their North African opponents.
"Yeah, it will be hostile, but I think we have enough experience in the group to be able to deal with that," Ajayi stated. "Today was pretty much an away game. I'd say the stadium was about 80% Algeria. So, learning how to deal with that and navigate that will stand us in good stead for the next game."
This experience is bolstered by the core of players who reached the final of the 2023 edition in Ivory Coast, falling just short and claiming a silver medal. That memory, according to Ajayi, is fueling a powerful sense of redemption within the squad.
Hungry for Redemption and a Fourth Title
The defender emphasised that the team's hunger is identical to that of the 2023 squad, with the singular goal of going one step further and lifting the trophy. "We know how painful it was to not go all the way last time, and we're looking to make amends for that," he revealed.
Despite the impressive run to the final four, Ajayi stressed that the mission is far from complete. The entire focus is now on overcoming Morocco to book a place in the AFCON final. "We still have a semi-final to deal with, and we'll be really hungry, ready, and focused to make sure we complete that mission," he added, noting the team is fine-tuning every detail in training.
The Super Eagles are bidding to win the AFCON for the fourth time in their history, having previously triumphed in 1980, 1994, and 2013. Standing in their way is a Moroccan side buoyed by home support, setting the stage for a monumental clash.
In a related development, the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has reportedly decided to submit a second official protest to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following their quarterfinal defeat to Nigeria, adding another layer of drama to the tournament's narrative.
