By Daily Sports Nigeria on January 12, 2026

Nigeria defender Bright Osayi-Samuel insists the Super Eagles have become a team opponents now fear, following their 2-0 quarter-final victory over Algeria at the Marrakech Stadium, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Speaking after the win, the Birmingham City player credited the team’s focus and dominant play for putting their rivals on the back foot.

“Just focusing on ourselves. That is what we have been doing in every game, focusing on ourselves. Of course, every team has their strengths, and we look at that, but the main thing is to focus on ourselves. We keep believing in ourselves and keep listening to what the manager wants us to do, and teams will fear us,” Osayi-Samuel said.

He added that Algeria had been intimidated by the way Nigeria played.

“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, and today was one of those performances,” he said.

The full back highlighted the clean sheet and overall team performance as the most satisfying aspects of the win.

“We want a clean sheet. To play well, that is what the manager wanted from us. I think we did that. We scored two great goals, and they had no shots on target. They are a team that usually scores a lot of goals, so today was great for us. Now we look forward to the next game,” he added.

When asked about Algerian complaints regarding the referee, Osayi-Samuel remained diplomatic, saying, “That is not my business.”

Statistically, he was the joint-highest-rated Nigerian in the match according to SofaScore.

Osayi-Samuel contributed three tackles, two clearances, one blocked shot, seven recoveries, and won seven of ten ground duels.

He completed 27 of 30 passes (90 per cent) overall, including 19 of 21 in the opposition half, and delivered three crosses, one of which found its target.

He played 89 minutes before being substituted for Igoh Ogbu.

There had been concern for his fitness after he was pictured holding his legs in the closing stages, prompting fears he might miss the semi-final.

“No, it wasn’t an injury, just cramps. My legs were cold, and I couldn’t move my toes, but I’m fine, perfectly fine,” Osayi-Samuel clarified the issue, confirming he would be available for the clash against Morocco.

Osayi-Samuel has been a key figure throughout the tournament, providing both defensive solidity and offensive creativity on the right flank.

With Ola Aina and Benjamin Fredrick sidelined by injuries, he has helped maintain balance and continuity for the team, enabling Nigeria to exploit the pace and technical skills of their wingers.

The Super Eagles now prepare for a crucial semi-final against host nation Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Wednesday, where Osayi-Samuel’s fitness and form will be vital as Nigeria seeks its fourth Africa Cup of Nations title.

Source Punch Ng

Posted January 12, 2026

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