Julius Aghahowa has again proved that when Nigeria are looking for inspiration, he can provide it.

Nigeria deserved their 1-0 victory over Group A opponents Algeria in Bamako on Monday, but the Super Eagles found it difficult to make their pressure count.

But Ukraine-based midfielder Aghahowa managed to find a way through.

His goal came two minutes before half-time, when he advancing on goal from 35 yards out before cutting inside and beating Lounes Gaouaoui at the near post with a low shot.

He scored two goals within 8 minutes when the Super Eagles looked as if they were about to be beaten by Senegal in the quarter-finals.

Missed chances

Algeria had an opportunity to level the scores shortly after half-time but unmarked fullback Moulay Haddou headed wide with the goal at his mercy.

Nwankwo Kanu, who came on for the second half missed two clear chances, the first a close-range effort well saved, the second a shot that went just wide.

Nigeria's best player was 'Jay-Jay' Okocha, who showed great skill and composure, and who was unlucky not to score himself.

Despite their dominance Nigeria were guilty of sitting back on occasion.

Skipper Abdelhafid Tasfaout has a number of half chances, while the best Algerian chance came three minutes before the break.

Rafi Saifi powered into the Nigerian penalty area only to roll his shot wide.

It was a costly miss, as Nigerian possession led to a good attack and Aghahowa's goal, which was enough to bury Algerian hopes.

The result puts Nigeria top of group A and in an excellent position to progress to the next round