Morocco have progressed to the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Nigeria in a penalty shootout at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Both sides failed to find the net after regulation time and extra time, which forced the semi-final encounter into penalties before the hosts claimed victory.
Before kick-off, Victor Osimhen had brushed aside concerns about the intimidating home support, stating that his teammates were used to tougher and more intense match environments. However, the packed stadium later appeared to unsettle the Super Eagles, who struggled to settle into their rhythm.
Nigeria’s attacking trio of Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams, who accounted for most of the team’s 14 goals in the competition, failed to make a decisive impact. Alex Iwobi found it difficult to dictate play, as the pressure from the home supporters limited Nigeria’s attacking flow.
The absence of captain Wilfred Ndidi, who missed the match due to suspension, created a gap in midfield. Raphael Onyedika stepped in but faced challenges, while Frank Onyeka took on multiple duties to reduce the impact of Ndidi’s absence.
Lookman produced Nigeria’s first effort on target, but the Super Eagles managed only one additional shot for the rest of the contest. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali remained busy, while Morocco’s Yaccine Bono had little to do for most periods of the match.
Nigeria’s defence, which included Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bruno Onyemaechi and Bright Osayi-Samuel, faced sustained pressure as they worked to contain Morocco’s attacking players, including Brahim Diaz, Ayoub El-Kaabi and Abde Ezzalzouli.
The outcome left head coach Eric Chelle and his players frustrated after a run of impressive displays earlier in the tournament. Members of the Nigerian camp also expressed dissatisfaction with some of the decisions made by Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Ayi Laryea, particularly over calls that affected the flow of the match.
Nigeria remained in contention through extra time, which set the stage for a penalty shootout. Stanley Nwabali saved Hamza Igamane’s kick, a moment that briefly lifted Nigerian hopes. However, Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi failed to convert their attempts, which allowed Youssef En-Nesyri to score the winning penalty for Morocco.
The defeat ended Nigeria’s quest for a fourth AFCON title, with the Super Eagles again halted by a host nation. Cote d’Ivoire had stopped Nigeria in the final of the previous edition.
Morocco will face Senegal in Sunday’s final, while Nigeria will meet Egypt in the third-place match on Saturday.
