Morocco booked their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final on Wednesday after a tense semi‑final against Nigeria that ended 0–0 after extra time and was decided by penalties, with the Atlas Lions winning 4–2 in the shootout at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
In a match marked by tactical discipline and cautious play from both sides, neither team could find a breakthrough in the 120 minutes of regulation and extra time. Despite Nigeria’s resolute defending and Morocco’s home‑support advantage, clear chances were limited and the deadlock persisted, requiring a dramatic penalty shootout to decide who would advance.
In the shootout, Morocco held their nerve to convert four of their spot kicks, while Nigeria managed just two successful attempts. Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi missed their penalties for the Super Eagles, ultimately swinging momentum in favour of the hosts. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou starred in the shootout, producing crucial saves that helped secure the win for Morocco.
With the victory, Morocco, chasing their first AFCON title in five decades, will now face Senegal in the final scheduled to be played on 18 January 2026 in Rabat. Senegal booked their spot earlier with a 1–0 semi‑final win over Egypt.
For Nigeria, the penalty defeat ends their campaign for the continental crown but opens a path to the third‑place playoff against Egypt, who were beaten by Senegal in the other semi‑final. Despite the loss, the Super Eagles’ strong tournament performance showcased their defensive resilience and tactical discipline through 120 minutes against the hosts before the cruel lottery of penalties.
The stage is now set for a compelling AFCON final between home‑nation favourites Morocco and the Teranga Lions of Senegal, while Nigeria looks to end on a high note in the third‑place match as the 35th edition of the tournament heads toward its climax.