Morocco, yesterday, beat Nigeria to secure their place in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 final, after defeating Nigeria 4 goals to 2 on penalties as the game ended goalless in the semi-final played at Rabat.
Morocco and Nigeria had a shootout after 120 minutes of high-intensity football failed to produce a goal. Both sides had periods of control during regulation time and extra time, but clear chances were limited and goalkeepers were rarely beaten.
Nigeria’s defence, led by an outstanding Calvin Bassey, absorbed sustained pressure for long stretches. Bassey recorded a series of crucial clearances and interceptions, repeatedly cutting out Morocco’s advances as the hosts pushed for a winner late in extra time.
Morocco created the final opportunity of the match in the 120th minute when Neil El Aynaoui struck from distance, but Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali saved to force penalties.
The shootout swung decisively in Morocco’s favour when Yassine Bounou saved Bruno Onyemaechi’s effort. Earlier, Nwabali had kept Nigeria level by denying Ayoub Igamane, but missed penalties from Samuel Chukwueze and Onyemaechi saved the Moroccans..
Achraf Hakimi and Eliesse Ben Seghir converted calmly for Morocco, before Youssef En-Nesyri sealed qualification with the decisive kick, sparking celebrations inside the stadium.Nigeria were dealt a significant blow late in extra time when Victor Osimhen, their designated penalty taker, was withdrawn after appearing physically spent.
His replacement, Paul Onuachu, scored his penalty, but it was not enough to overturn Morocco’s advantage.With the result, Morocco now shoot into Sunday’s AFCON final, where they will face Senegal, who earlier defeated Egypt with Sadio Mané playing a central role.
For Nigeria, the defeat extends recent penalty shootout frustration, while Morocco remain on course to lift the continental title in front of their home supporters.
