Midfielder Frank Onyeka has identified Nigeria’s clinical efficiency in front of goal as the primary engine behind their successful run at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Speaking ahead of today’s blockbuster quarter-final clash against the Desert Foxes of Algeria, the Brentford star noted that the team’s ability to convert chances has provided a psychological edge over their opponents. Nigeria enters the knockout tie at the Marrakesh Stadium boasting the tournament’s most productive offense, having found the net 12 times in just four matches, including a comprehensive 4-0 victory over Mozambique in the previous round.
During a press conference on Friday, Onyeka highlighted the synergy within the Nigerian engine room, praising the tactical balance provided by his teammates. He explained that the defensive stability allows creative players like Alex Iwobi the freedom to dictate the tempo and progress the ball into dangerous areas. The Super Eagles remain the only team in the competition to have secured every victory within the regulation 90 minutes, a statistic Onyeka attributes to the relentless pressure applied by the forward line and the disciplined structure of the midfield unit.
“Our strikers, they are scoring goals. I think that’s what has helped us in the tournament,” Onyeka told reporters. “Now we are ready. Alex is just doing what Alex does, like making the passes and helping the team move forward. Wilfred is controlling the midfield, and I just focus on what I’m good at.”
Despite the buoyant atmosphere in the Nigerian camp, Onyeka acknowledged the significant threat posed by an Algerian side that maintains one of the best defensive records in Morocco. The North Africans entered the knockout stages with a perfect nine-point haul from the group phase and demonstrated immense resilience by overcoming DR Congo in a grueling extra-time encounter. Onyeka emphasized that the squad remains fully concentrated on their specific game plan to exploit potential gaps in the Algerian defense while maintaining their own defensive integrity.
“No, we are set. We are focused on the game. Yeah, they are a very good team. They have nine points from the group stage. They made it past the Round of 16, and it’s definitely not going to be an easy match. But we just want to focus on our game and find out how we can win,” he explained.
The Super Eagles conducted their final tactical drills late Friday evening, focusing on high-press scenarios and transition play to counter Algeria’s technical ball-retention style. Head coach Éric Chelle has reportedly emphasized the importance of winning individual duels in the center of the park, where Onyeka and Wilfred Ndidi will play pivotal roles. With a semi-final spot against either Morocco or Cameroon on the line, the Nigerian delegation feels prepared to handle the intensity of one of Africa’s most storied footballing rivalries.
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