AFCON 2025 delivered late-night drama on Wednesday as host nation Morocco knocked Nigeria out of the tournament on penalties to reach the final. The tense semi-final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium ended 0–0 after extra time before Morocco sealed a 4–2 shootout victory.
The match was tightly fought over 120 minutes, but Morocco carried the attacking threat for long spells. The Atlas Lions recorded 16 shots compared to Nigeria’s two, pressing relentlessly without finding a breakthrough. Nigeria survived wave after wave of pressure thanks largely to goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who made several crucial stops to keep the Super Eagles alive.
Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was equally decisive, denying Nigeria’s rare chances and standing firm during extra time. Star forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman struggled to make an impact, repeatedly shut down by Morocco’s compact defence and disciplined midfield.
Full-backs Achraf Hakimi and Noussair Mazraoui were standout performers for the hosts. Both pushed high to stretch Nigeria’s back line while recovering quickly to limit counterattacks. Their energy and control helped Morocco dominate territory and tempo throughout the contest.
The deadlock forced a penalty shootout, where composure proved decisive. Paul Onuachu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru converted Nigeria’s spot-kicks, but Samuel Chukwueze fired wide and Bruno Onyamaechi saw his effort saved. Morocco capitalised, and Youssef En-Nesyri calmly slotted the winning penalty to ignite celebrations inside the packed stadium.
Morocco now advance to Sunday’s final, where they will face defending champions Senegal. The Atlas Lions are chasing only their second Africa Cup of Nations title and their first since lifting the trophy in 1976, also as hosts.
Nigeria, meanwhile, must regroup quickly. The Super Eagles will face Egypt in Saturday’s third-place playoff after the Pharaohs were edged 1–0 by Senegal in the other semi-final earlier on Wednesday.
