AFCON 2025: Morocco beat Nigeria on penalties to book final spot

Morocco’s Atlas Lions defeated Nigeria’s Super Eagles on penalties to secure a place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The semi-final clash at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat ended goalless after 120 minutes of intense football, with the hosts eventually prevailing in a tense penalty shootout.

Before kick-off, Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen had brushed aside concerns about the intimidating atmosphere expected from the Moroccan home crowd, insisting the Super Eagles were used to playing under pressure. However, backed by a raucous sea of red, the home supporters created a hostile environment that appeared to unsettle the Nigerian side.

Nigeria’s usually potent attacking trio of Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams—responsible for most of the team’s 14 goals at the tournament—were largely subdued. Alex Iwobi struggled to impose himself in midfield as the relentless noise and pressure disrupted Nigeria’s rhythm.

Although Lookman registered Nigeria’s first shot on target, the Super Eagles managed just one more effort on goal across two hours of football. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was kept busy at the other end, while Morocco’s Yassine Bono was rarely troubled.

Defensively, Nigeria’s back four of Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bruno Onyemaechi and Bright Osayi-Samuel put in a tireless display to contain Morocco’s attacking threats, including Brahim Diaz, Ayoub El-Kaabi and Abde Ezzalzouli.

It was a frustrating evening for head coach Eric Chelle and his players, who had delivered impressive performances earlier in the tournament. The Nigerians were also unhappy with some officiating decisions by Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Ayi Laryea, feeling several calls went against them and disrupted their momentum.

The match was ultimately decided from the penalty spot, a painful scenario for Nigeria following recent shootout heartbreak. Nwabali initially raised hopes by saving Hamza Igamane’s effort, but misses from Samuel Chukwueze and Onyemaechi proved costly as Bono made crucial saves. Youssef En-Nesyri converted the winning penalty to send Morocco through.

Nigeria’s quest for a fourth AFCON title was once again ended by a host nation, after Côte d’Ivoire defeated the Super Eagles in the final of the previous edition in Abidjan.

Morocco will face Senegal in Sunday’s final, while Nigeria will battle Egypt in the third-place match on Saturday.