‘He Punched My Face’ – Osayi-Samuel Explains Touchline Clash in Eagles’ AFCON Win

Nigeria’s Super Eagles booked a 2-0 win over Algeria in the AFCON 2025 semi-final at Stade de Marrakech, but the match was briefly overshadowed by a heated exchange involving Bright Osayi-Samuel. The Birmingham City right-back, who delivered an impressive display, clashed with Algerian winger Anis Hadj Moussa in the 68th minute.

Osayi-Samuel tried to shield the ball, but Moussa shoved him in frustration. The Nigerian confronted the winger, who then grabbed his throat before referee Issa Sy intervened and booked Moussa. Speaking after the game, Osayi-Samuel admitted he reacted badly, saying, “I was agitated because he punched my face… I overreacted.”

He added that Nigeria’s 2-0 lead meant he “shouldn’t have done it.” Looking ahead, the defender said the team believes it can overcome hosts Morocco, noting, “keep believing in ourselves… and I think we’ll beat Morocco too.” Nigeria face Morocco on Wednesday in Rabat in a highly anticipated semi-final.