Tournament hosts Morocco national football team remain firmly on course for a historic Africa Cup of Nations triumph after grinding out a tense penalty shoot-out victory over Nigeria national football team in a dramatic semi-final showdown in Rabat.
The Atlas Lions showed composure under pressure to book their place in the Africa Cup of Nations final, keeping alive hopes of lifting the trophy for the first time in 50 years.
Cagey Opening as Chances Prove Scarce
With a final berth at stake, both sides began cautiously. Morocco enjoyed early possession but struggled to break down Nigeria’s disciplined defence. Brahim DÃaz flashed a promising effort wide, while at the other end, Ademola Lookman tested Yassine Bounou with a strike that was comfortably saved.
As the half wore on, Morocco edged closer. Adam Masina failed to capitalise on a loose ball in the six-yard box, while DÃaz once again dragged an effort off target. Achraf Hakimi’s fierce free-kick landed on the roof of the net, before Stanley Nwabali produced an excellent save to deny Ismael Saibari. It was a tight first half, ending goalless for only the second time in Nigeria’s tournament.
Second Half Stalemate Raises the Tension
Nigeria showed more intent after the restart, with Raphael Onyedika’s scuffed effort bouncing narrowly wide. Morocco responded instantly as Abde Ezzalzouli forced another sharp save from Nwabali. However, as the minutes ticked away, the semi-final became increasingly cagey, with neither side willing to overcommit.
Ezzalzouli had the final chance of normal time, whipping a low effort from range that was safely gathered. Ninety minutes could not separate the two African heavyweights.
Extra-Time Drama but No Breakthrough
Extra time followed the same pattern: Morocco pressing, Nigeria holding firm. Nayef Aguerd came closest, glancing a corner onto the outside of the post, while Hamza Igamane twice threatened with clever movement and a hooked volley.
Nigeria struggled to create clear chances, managing very little in the final third. Morocco almost sealed it late on when Neil El Aynaoui fired a long-range effort straight at Nwabali. Penalties were inevitable.
Penalty Shoot-Out Heartbreak for Nigeria
The shoot-out swung dramatically. Igamane’s opening penalty was saved, handing Nigeria the early advantage, but Samuel Chukwueze failed to capitalise as his effort was also kept out. Both sides then traded successful kicks before Hakimi converted confidently for Morocco.
The decisive moment came when Bruno Onyemaechi was denied by Bounou, allowing Youssef En-Nesyri to step up. The striker delivered under immense pressure, blasting home the winning penalty to seal a 4-2 shoot-out victory and spark wild celebrations in Rabat.
What It Means for the AFCON Final
Morocco will now face the Senegal national football team in the final back in Rabat, with history within touching distance. For Nigerian fans, it was a painful exit after a resilient tournament, while Morocco marches on with belief, home support, and momentum firmly on their side.
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