In a gripping Africa Cup of Nations 2025 semi-final played on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco knocked out Nigeria's Super Eagles 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a tense 0-0 draw that lasted 120 minutes.
The game was a classic defensive contest. Both teams were well-organised, with Morocco enjoying home advantage and Nigeria relying on their solid backline to frustrate the Atlas Lions' attacks.
Despite Nigeria having one of the tournament's most potent attacks prior to the match, clear goal-scoring opportunities were scarce on both ends, leading to a goalless stalemate through regular and extra time.
The decisive moment came in the penalty shootout:
Morocco converted their kicks through Neil El Aynaoui, Eliesse Ben Seghir, Achraf Hakimi, and Youssef En-Nesyri (who scored the winning penalty).
Nigeria scored via Paul Onuachu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, but Yassine Bounou (Bono) made two crucial saves to deny Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi.
This victory sends Morocco into Sunday's final against Senegal, where they will chase their first AFCON title since 1976.
For Nigeria, it's another heartbreaking exit on penalties, they will now play Egypt in the third-place match.
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