 2025 semi-final on January 14, 2026, Morocco advanced to the final following){kind=link}
In a tightly contested Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 semi-final on January 14, 2026, Morocco advanced to the final following a 4–2 penalty shootout victory against Nigeria after an evenly matched 120 minutes ended goalless at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
This result sets up a final showdown with Senegal on January 18 and consigns Nigeria to the third-place playoff against Egypt.
The match unfolded as a tactical and defensive battle. Both sides created limited clear scoring opportunities throughout regular and extra time.
Morocco, buoyed by passionate home support, maintained more possession and edged in attacking intent, but neither side could break the deadlock across 90 minutes and an additional 30 minutes of extra time.
Nigeria’s famed strike force, which had been the tournament’s most prolific unit, was notably subdued, while Morocco’s disciplined backline allowed few genuine chances.
Despite the lack of goals in open play, the contest provided drama in the shootout.
Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerged as the pivotal figure, saving penalty attempts from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi to swing momentum in favour of the hosts.
His decisive performances from the spot ultimately proved decisive. Youssef En-Nesyri calmly converted Morocco’s final penalty to seal the win and ignite celebrations among the home crowd.
Nigeria’s penalty takers were unable to match Morocco’s precision from the spot, with two failed efforts undermining their bid to reach the continental final.
The Super Eagles’ campaign, which began with five consecutive wins and the tournament’s best scoring record, ended in disappointment as they missed the chance to contest for the title.
With this result, Morocco continue their historic run at the AFCON on home soil, vying for a first championship in decades.
Nigeria, meanwhile, will aim to conclude their tournament on a positive note in the third-place fixture.