Algeria national team winger Riyad Mahrez conceded defeat to Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Saturday.
Striker Victor Osimhen scored his fourth goal of the competition and assisted as Nigeria edged Algeria 2-0, and will now face Morocco in the last four clash in Rabat.
“We were a little late in our positioning, and perhaps we lacked balance. We faced a very strong team, and we didn’t manage to keep possession of the ball in the first half in a way that would allow us to threaten them.”
He continued: “Ultimately, this is the truth; they were better than us, and that’s part of football. We must now continue to work and move forward.”
The captain of the ‘Greens’ added: “We did everything we could to qualify, but we came up against a stronger team, and this happens in football.”
Regarding the refereeing, Mahrez explained: “Everyone saw what happened. Of course, we didn’t lose because of this (the refereeing), but the referee was quick to show us yellow cards, while he didn’t do the same with them (Nigeria). High-level football is decided by small details, but this is football.”
Omatschibuike
0
Algeria came,saw but couldn't conquer as the Super eagles of Nigeria were way superior in every angle. Go home and strategize,next Afcon may be your's,who knows
Jeubsuz
4
pls let leave marhez alone,he saying whatever he likes against the super eagle and the refree,he'll not happy because the way the super eagle team holds them on pitch.PThey can't eat,drinks, playing,joke because of defeated. Morocco is the next target by Wednesday. Morocco 1 Nigeria. 4 IJN,Ishallah,Ase Edumare......
Llorenzo
2
Nigeria was winning every first balls and second balls. Winning 80% of their 1v 1 duels, both from an attacking and defending positions... The yellow cards didn't make u play poorly, you lot weren't just good enough and clearly was complacent against the Super Eagles📌📌
SylvesterSylvester
4
For the first time I saw Nigeria outplayed Algeria like Nigeria were in control of the whole game.
neecstuy
3
Algeria weren't a good match for Nigeria that is just it.
Crain
1
Imagine the ball that crossed the tail line was counted what would u hv said?? The refree was even favoring them. People that had no shot on target all through 90+5 mins is talking. Better Geria out of sluggish geria outplayed u people abeg
Zumzy
3
Nigeria outplayed Algeria in every position, both in physicality they were no match.
Sammist82
0
It’s the first time I am seeing ref favouring us I was surprised.
wiuaeikln
3
The referee did is job to perfection, you guy's were not good enough to match Nigeria
toscdekouy
5
Mahrez keep quiet , officiating was ok , your entire team lack discipline and are trouble makers, surrender to your boss.