Hosts Morocco survived a nervy night in Rabat to see off Nigeria 4-2 on penalties to reach the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a gripping 0-0 draw over 120 minutes.
The match at the packed Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium was a tense, tightly contested semi-final that highlighted the defensive resilience of both sides. Morocco controlled large periods but struggled to break down a disciplined Nigerian defence. Nigeria’s attack, led by Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, was largely contained, managing only two shots — their lowest tally in an AFCON match since Opta records began in 2010.
Extra time brought more intensity but no breakthrough, setting the stage for the decisive penalty shootout.
Penalty shootout drama
Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, hero of the nation’s 2022 World Cup run, proved pivotal once again. He denied Samuel Chukwueze with a low save and then thwarted Bruno Onyemaechi.
Morocco’s successful penalties came from Neil El Aynaoui, Achraf Hakimi, Eliesse Ben Seghir and the decisive Youssef En-Nesyri, who stroked the ball calmly into the bottom corner to spark wild celebrations. Nigeria converted through Paul Onuachu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
Path to history
The victory propels Morocco into their first AFCON final since 2004 — when current coach Walid Regragui featured as a player — and keeps alive their dream of lifting the continental crown for the first time since 1976.
The Atlas Lions have been imperious on home soil, conceding just once in the tournament and boasting a formidable backline anchored by Achraf Hakimi, Nayef Aguerd and Noussair Mazraoui. Star performer Brahim Diaz, the tournament’s leading scorer with goals in his first five matches, was held in check but remained a constant threat.
Nigeria’s heartbreak continues
For Nigeria, the result marks another heartbreaking shootout exit, coming less than two months after a similar defeat to DR Congo in World Cup qualifying. Despite their entertaining brand of football throughout the competition, the Super Eagles could not capitalise on their attacking talent.
Morocco now turn their attention to Sunday’s final (19.00 GMT) against Senegal, who advanced with a 1-0 win over Egypt courtesy of a late Sadio Mané strike. The Teranga Lions represent a formidable challenge, but the hosts will fancy their chances with the weight of a passionate nation behind them.
As fireworks lit up the Rabat sky and players embraced on the pitch, the Atlas Lions stand on the brink of history — one step away from ending a 50-year wait for African glory on home turf.
