AFCON 2025: Morocco Edge Nigeria To Reach Final

 

Morocco emerged victorious in a thrilling Africa Cup of Nations encounter, defeating Nigeria 4-2 in a penalty shootout after the game ended 0-0, despite extra time.

The game was a tense, end-to-end affair, with both teams creating chances but failing to convert into goals. Nigeria's Ademola Lookman had a glorious opportunity to put his side ahead, but Yassine Bounou produced a stunning save to keep the scores level. Morocco's Brahim Díaz also had a chance to score, but his effort was blocked.

As the game wore on, the tension mounted, with both teams committing players forward in search of a winner. However, it was the penalty shootout that ultimately decided the game, with Morocco's Youssef En-Nesyri scoring the decisive kick.

Nigeria's performance was characterized by their usual energy and intent, but they were ultimately undone by Bounou's heroics and their own missed chances. Morocco, on the other hand, were clinical in the shootout, with En-Nesyri's winner sealing their progression to the next round.

In the final, Morocco will face Senegal, who defeated Egypt by 1-0, following a late goal from Sadio Mane. Nigeria will face Egypt in the third-place play-off.

Overview 

An interesting first half for Morocco, who were able to quell the Super Eagles' aggression. Ultimately, Nigeria's gameplan did not pay off. Playing Lookman Ademola in the centre forward and Osimhen on the right proved ineffective in the first half. The Super Eagles could barely get a shot at the target. Even though their counterparts had just one shot at the target, they could have done better, but the attackers could not find spaces inside the Moroccan's box. 

It was an unproductive second half for the Super Eagles. The midfield was ineffective, as it was earlier in the game. They engaged in long throws to charge the frontline, but that was not efficient either. Having to play Lookman from the centre and later to the right wing did not pay off. Victor Osimhen was completely immobilized by the host team. They appeared to have settled penalties. Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi lost their penalties.