Morocco defeated Nigeria 4-2 on penalty shootout in their semifinal clash on Wednesday night to advance to the final of the 2025 African Cup of Nations tournament.
The host nation came into the clash at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on the back of four wins from their five matches, while the Super Eagles remained the only side with a 100% record at the tournament.
A late strike from Sadio Mane had given Senegal a 1-0 win over Egypt in the other semifinal clash and sealed progress to the final, awaiting the winner of the second semifinal.
The game started off at a fast pace as expected, although Morocco gained ascendancy while Nigeria were content to sit back.
Ademola Lookman fired an effort on goal, but was denied by a superb save from Yaccine Bounou, while Brahim Diaz shot over at the other end.
Ayoub El Kaabi them failed to get on the end of a corner kick, allowing Nigeria to clear their lines as the high intensity game remained goalless.
The hosts nation were restricted mostly to long-range strikes while the Super Eagles were on the end of poor officiating by the center referee, who made several dubious calls.
Abde Ezzalzouli was denied twice by Stanley Nwabali, as the host nation continued to mount pressure on the Nigerian defence.
With no goals after 120 minutes of action and added time, the match went into penalties to determine the winner.
Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi missed for the Super Eagles, while Morocco scored four of their spot-kicks and despite the best efforts of Stanley Nwabali, it was the Atlas Lions who sealed a 4-2 win and advanced to the final.
Morocco will now face Senegal in the final of the 2025 AFCON tournament, while Nigeria suffer another penalty shootout heartbreak and will face Egypt in the bronze medal match.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
