The Super Eagles' rollercoaster form in the 2010 African Cup of Nation continued in Benguela on Saturday as they struggled in the first half before Obinna Nsofor's 55th minute goal handed them a 1-0 win over the Desert foxes of Algeria.
The Algerian National team was beaten 4-0 in the semi-final encounter with the defending champions Egypt.But Algeria showed better discipline in their match against the Eagles and played some of their most attractive football of the competition as they pushed for an equaliser in the last 20 minutes.
Despite their dominance in the second-half, the Desert Foxes lacked a genuine goal-threat and failed to break down the Eagles defence.
Kanu magic
Meanwhile, the Super Eagles' frontline was transformed by the introduction of Portsmouth striker Nwankwo Kanu.
Head coach Shaibu Amodu brought in Kanu for Osaze Odemwingie after the Lokomotiv Moscow striker publicly criticised his manager's tactics in their semi final defeat.
While Kanu had little effect in the opening 45 minutes, his forward proved a class above in the second half, teasing the Algeria defence with his quick feet and subtle through-balls and playing a part in Nsofor's opportunistic goal.
The young striker was quick to act after Kanu had caused confusion on the edge of the Algeria area and smartly slid the ball past the on-rushing Algeria goalkeeper Mohamed Ousserir.
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