Algeria head coach Vladimir Petković has praised Nigeria following the Super Eagles’ 2–0 victory in their Africa Cup of Nations quarter final match.

Speaking after the encounter, Petković admitted that Nigeria were the better side, saying his team struggled to settle into the game from the early minutes.

According to him, the Super Eagles controlled important phases of the match and did not allow Algeria to play to their strengths.

“Nigeria was better than us and prevented us from playing the way we wanted,” he said.

The Algerian coach noted that his side lacked some of the key qualities needed to compete at that level, pointing to Nigeria’s superior individual quality and physical strength.

He explained that Algeria attempted to respond in the second half but failed to improve their attacking play.

“We tried to get better after the break, but we could not reach the level we wanted going forward,” Petković said.

Despite the disappointment of the exit, he praised his players for their efforts throughout the tournament, describing the mood in the camp as one of frustration.

“The players are devastated, but they performed well during the competition,” he said.

Petković urged his team to move on from the defeat and remain focused on the future.

“This tournament is over. We must now look ahead and keep our heads held high,” he added.

[NAN]