The Super Eagles campaign at the ongoing African Cup of Nations was ended by a stoppage time free-kick by Riyad Mahrez, as Algeria claimed a well deserved 2-1 victory over the three-time African champions.
It was a well contested encounter, but Algeria had the upper hand in the first half of the game, due to a 40th minute own goal by William Troost-Ekong.
The Eagles found it difficult to restore parity to the game as the Algerians held their position stiffly.
However, Nigeria was awarded a penalty after a VAR review on a foul by Aissa Mandi in the 71st minute, Odion Ighalo converted the goal to level the scores for Nigeria.
Algeria fought hard and fast to restore their lead, but were very unsuccessful as the Eagles firmly held their ground in the second half.
At this point, it was anyone’s game and both teams knew this.
In the 78th minute, Rohr substituted Henry Onyekuru for Samuel Chukwueze, in a bid to weigh in experience over skill. But that wasn’t a very practical move for the German tactician seeing as he took out Nigeria’s only froward striker.
The game extended into extra time and the Algerians quickly found their well sought lead when Mahrez shot home from a well taken free kick in the 95th minute, wining his side their first final game since they last lifted the trophy in 1990.
Nigeria will now take on Tunisia in a third place encounter, while Algeria will do battle with Senegal for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations crown.
Featured Image Source: Score Nigeria
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