AFCON 2025: Morocco beat Nigeria on penalties to reach final
Morocco have moved one step closer to a long-awaited Africa Cup of Nations triumph after edging Nigeria 4–2 on penalties in a gripping semi-final in Morocco.
The high-stakes encounter between the Atlas Lions and the Super Eagles ended 0–0 after both regulation time and extra time, but the hosts kept their composure from the spot to secure a place in Sunday’s final.
They will now face Senegal in Rabat after Sadio Mané’s late goal earlier in the day sent the Teranga Lions past Egypt in the other semi-final.
Related Article: AFCON 2025: Senegal book final spot with 1–0 win over Egypt
From the opening whistle, the contest lived up to its billing. Nigeria pressed aggressively through midfield, while Morocco relied on their fluid wide play and quick transitions to stretch the Super Eagles’ defence.
Both sides created half-chances, but clear openings were rare as the two backlines dominated. Nigeria’s pace on the counter caused problems, while Morocco’s technical midfield kept the hosts in control for long spells.
Despite the intensity, neither side could find the breakthrough across 90 minutes, forcing the game into extra time.
Extra time drama but no breakthrough
The tempo remained high even as fatigue began to set in. Nigeria pushed forward with renewed urgency, knowing that a place in the AFCON final was within reach, but Morocco’s defence stayed organised.
The Atlas Lions, buoyed by a passionate home crowd, also had moments to snatch the win, yet neither team could produce the decisive touch. After 120 minutes, the semi-final had to be settled by penalties.
Morocco hold their nerve
In the shoot-out, Morocco were clinical. Their players converted four of their kicks, while Nigeria missed twice, allowing the hosts to secure a 4–2 victory from the spot.
The result sparked celebrations across the stadium as Morocco confirmed their place in the final, keeping alive their dream of lifting the AFCON trophy on home soil.
A heavy blow for Nigeria
For the Super Eagles, the defeat was another painful exit at the semi-final stage. They had matched Morocco stride for stride and showed discipline and resilience, but the fine margins of penalty shoot-outs once again went against them.
Nigeria will now turn their focus to the third-place playoff, while reflecting on a campaign that showed promise but ended just short of a title shot.
All eyes on Rabat
Morocco’s reward is a blockbuster final against Senegal at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Sunday.
With the hosts backed by a passionate home crowd and Senegal arriving with momentum after beating Egypt, the AFCON 2025 final promises to be a fitting climax to a tournament filled with drama, quality and unforgettable moments.
SportsLigue