Nigeria defender Bright Osayi-Samuel has declared that the Super Eagles have become a team opponents now fear, following their 2-0 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final victory over Algeria at the Marrakech Stadium.
The Birmingham City fullback praised the team’s focus and dominance for keeping Algeria on the back foot. “Just focusing on ourselves. That is what we have been doing in every game… teams will fear us,” Osayi-Samuel said after the match. He added that Algeria appeared intimidated by Nigeria’s performance: “I felt Algeria were scared of us because of the way we were playing. That is what we want to do, dominate games and dominate teams.”
Osayi-Samuel highlighted the team’s defensive discipline, noting that keeping a clean sheet was a key objective. Statistically, he was one of Nigeria’s top performers, completing three tackles, two clearances, and one blocked shot, winning seven of ten ground duels, and completing 27 of 30 passes with 90 percent accuracy. He also delivered three crosses, with one finding its target.
Despite concerns when he was seen holding his legs late in the match, Osayi-Samuel confirmed it was only cramps and assured fans he would be fit for Nigeria’s semi-final clash against Morocco. His consistent performances have helped fill the void left by injured defenders Ola Aina and Benjamin Fredrick, maintaining balance on the right flank and supporting Nigeria’s attacking play.
Osayi-Samuel’s combination of defensive solidity and offensive contribution has been a key factor in Nigeria’s run to the semi-finals, reflecting the team’s growth into a feared force at AFCON 2025. The Super Eagles now look ahead to their crucial semi-final match, where his fitness and form will be vital in Nigeria’s pursuit of a fourth continental title.
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