Rabat: Nigeria’s Super Eagles suffered a heartbreaking loss from the 2025 AFCON after losing 4-2 on penalties to host Morocco in a tense semi-final clash at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the encounter ended goalless after regulation time and extra time, with both sides locked in a tactical battle. The semi-final was an absorbing affair, with both teams showing intent from the outset and trading early opportunities in an open first half. Nigeria’s key attacking players, including Alex Iwobi and Ademola Lookman, struggled to impose themselves as chances were few. Victor Osimhen was tightly marked, with Morocco’s defense aware of the danger any lapse could pose.
As fatigue set in during extra time, caution prevailed, and both sides opted for a safety-first approach. With no breakthrough after 120 minutes, penalties were required. Yassine Bounou emerged as the hero, as Morocco advanced to a long-awaited AFCON final.
Despite the defeat, Nigeria’s defense, led by Calvin Bassey, was resolute, and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali impressed with a fine save during the shootout. However, missed penalties by Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi proved costly. Bounou saved penalties from both players, and Youssef En-Nesyri’s decisive kick secured Morocco’s victory.
Morocco will face Senegal in the final, aiming to lift the AFCON trophy for the second time, with their previous triumph in 1976. Nigeria will now focus on the third-place play-off against Egypt in Casablanca. Egypt had lost to Senegal in the first semi-final due to Sadio Mane’s strike.