AFCON 2025: Morocco Outlast Nigeria on Penalties To Book Final Spot

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By Sedara Philip

Tournament hosts Morocco booked their place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a tense penalty shootout victory over Nigeria on Wednesday night in Rabat.

Substitute forward Youssef En-Nesyri emerged as the hero, calmly converting the decisive spot kick to send the Atlas Lions through after a goalless draw across 120 minutes. The win secures Morocco’s first AFCON final appearance since 2004.

Much like the earlier semi-final between Senegal and Egypt, both sides adopted a cautious and tactical approach from the opening whistle. Nigeria almost paid dearly within the opening three minutes when Semi Ajayi misplaced a pass in a dangerous area, but the defender recovered superbly to deny Ismael Saibari a clear scoring opportunity.

The Super Eagles created the first real chance of the contest in the 13th minute when Ademola Lookman unleashed a long-range strike, forcing Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou into a sharp save. Despite the hosts enjoying more possession and probing forward with intent, the first half ended in stalemate.

The tempo increased after the break, with Morocco coming closest in the 52nd minute. A swift counter-attack released Abde Ezzalzouli, whose curling effort was expertly saved by Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

Nigeria struggled to carve out clear chances in the second half, but Morocco also found it difficult to break through a disciplined Super Eagles defence. Long-range efforts from the hosts failed to test Nwabali, and extra time passed without significant incident.

With the deadlock unbroken, the match was decided by penalties. After both teams converted their opening kicks, Nwabali produced a fine save to deny substitute Hamza Igamane, briefly swinging momentum in Nigeria’s favour. However, Bounou quickly responded by saving Samuel Chukwueze’s effort to restore parity.

The turning point came in the fourth round. Achraf Hakimi confidently converted for Morocco before Bounou read Bruno Onyemaechi’s attempt to make another crucial save. That set the stage for En-Nesyri, who showed remarkable composure to slot home the winning penalty and spark wild celebrations among the home fans.

Morocco now march into the AFCON final, while Nigeria’s hopes of continental glory end in heartbreaking fashion after a brave and disciplined performance.