Morocco have booked their place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after edging Nigeria 4–2 on penalties following a tense goalless draw at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Wednesday night.
The semifinal encounter remained deadlocked after 120 minutes of intense, physical football, with neither side able to find a decisive breakthrough in regulation time or extra time.
Morocco largely controlled proceedings, enjoying greater possession and creating more chances. The Atlas Lions registered six shots compared to Nigeria’s single attempt, but were repeatedly frustrated by a disciplined Super Eagles defence and resolute goalkeeping.
With the score still 0–0 at the end of extra time, the contest was settled from the penalty spot. Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou proved the hero, saving spot-kicks from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi to swing the shootout in his side’s favour.
Morocco’s penalty takers showed composure under pressure, with Neil El Aynaoui, Eliesse Ben Seghir, Achraf Hakimi and Youssef En-Nesyri all converting their efforts to seal a 4–2 victory.
The win sets up a mouthwatering final clash between Morocco and Senegal. The defending champions advanced after defeating Egypt 1–0 in the other semifinal.
The AFCON 2025 final will be played on Sunday, January 18, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 19:00 GMT.
