Hull City defender Semi Ajayi has explained why this Super Eagles side feels different after their composed 2–0 victory over Algeria booked a semi-final spot at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nigeria’s 2025 AFCON journey took another decisive step forward on Friday as the Super Eagles beat Algeria to set up a mouth-watering semi-final clash against hosts Morocco.
Speaking to Soccernet.ng, Ajayi reveals what is driving the Super Eagles of Nigeria in this tournament and how the game against the host nation will be
Semi Ajayi: “We won our A game — and we’ll need it again”
Asked whether Nigeria could outplay Morocco the same way they outplayed Algeria, Ajayi was quick to strike a balance between confidence and respect.
“Listen, Algeria is a top team. It wasn’t easy, but we won our A game today, and we’re definitely going to need it again in the next round.”
Nigeria’s performance against Algeria was one of their most controlled displays of the tournament — dominant without being reckless, ruthless when it mattered.
However, Ajayi insists the bar must be raised again against the hosts.
Pain from the past fuels this Super Eagles side
When pressed on what separates this Nigerian team from the one that fell short at the last AFCON hosted in the Ivory Coast, Ajayi pointed to a shared sense of purpose, which was sparked by the disappointment.
“Listen, both teams are driven; we both came with one goal, and the goal is the same. We know how painful it was to not go all the way last time, and we’re looking to make amends for that.”
Still, the former West Brom defender was careful not to look too far ahead.
“Like I said, we’ve still got a semi-final to deal with, and we’ll be really hungry and ready and focused to make sure we complete that mission.”
Morocco is another hostile test — but Nigeria are ready
Facing tournament hosts Morocco brings added pressure, but Ajayi believes Nigeria’s experience will be crucial.
“Yeah, it’ll be hostile, but I think we’ve got enough experience in the group to be able to deal with that. Today was pretty much an away game. I’d say the stadium was about 80%.”
That atmosphere against Algeria, he says, has already served as preparation.
“Learning how to deal with that and navigate that will stand us in good stead for the next game.”
‘No performance is perfect’ — Super Eagles eye improvements
Despite the convincing win over Algeria, Ajayi made it clear that Nigeria are far from satisfied.
“Because we can, we can always improve. No performance is perfect. There are some details that we can iron out and fix.”
He added
“We’ll be looking to do that on the training field before the next game. Maybe scoring more goals — I’ll keep that in-house — but we can definitely improve.”
Watch Semi Ajayi’s post-match reaction here:
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Nigeria are preparing for another explosive showdown with a host nation, as they look to secure a place in the final and put right the wrongs of the last AFCON.
