Morocco secured a spot in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after defeating Nigeria 4-2 on penalties, following a 0-0 draw that extended through extra time.
The semi-final, refereed by Ghanaian official Daniel Nii Ayi Laryea, was a tactical battle marked by defensive discipline from both sides, with neither team able to break the deadlock over 120 minutes.
Nigeria, led by the attacking duo of Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, controlled periods of possession but struggled to penetrate Morocco’s organised defensive line.
The Atlas Lions, captained by Achraf Hakimi, posed the greater threat on the counter and in open play. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made several crucial saves, notably denying attempts from Noussair Mazraoui and Abde Ezzalzouli, while Bono remained alert to thwart Lookman’s first-half effort.
Extra time mirrored the first 90 minutes, with both teams making substitutions to inject energy rather than alter tactics. Osimhen was replaced by Paul Onuachu late in the period, but clear chances remained limited as fatigue set in.
The outcome was ultimately decided in the penalty shoot-out. Morocco converted through Nabil El Aynaoui, Eliesse Ben Seghir, Achraf Hakimi, and Youssef En Nesyri. Nigeria stayed in contention via Onuachu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, but misses from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi shifted momentum decisively to Morocco.
Hakimi’s composed finish and En Nesyri’s successful kick sealed the victory for Morocco, ending Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 campaign in heartbreak after a tense and closely fought contest.
The Atlas Lions will now face Senegal in the AFCON 2025 final at 8 p.m. on Sunday, January 18, while the Super Eagles will take on Egypt in the third-place match at 5 p.m. on Saturday, January 17.
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