The Moroccan national team booked their place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a dramatic victory over Nigeria, decided by penalty shootouts (4-2) following a goalless draw in both regular and extra time.
The highly anticipated semi-final was played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat and officiated by Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Ayi Laryea. Despite intense pressure and numerous chances, neither side managed to find the back of the net during 120 minutes of play.
Regragui Keeps Winning Formula
Morocco head coach Walid Regragui opted to field the same starting lineup that delivered a solid quarter-final victory over Cameroon. The Atlas Lions started with:
Bounou – Hakimi, Aguerd, Masina, Mazraoui – Saibari, El Aynaoui, El Khannouss – Ezzalzouli, El Kaabi, Ibrahim
The opening minutes saw Morocco assert control, but Nigeria’s compact midfield and disciplined defensive shape limited clear openings. The first Moroccan warning came from Ibrahim, whose right-sided shot narrowly missed the target.
Morocco Dominates First Half
Nigeria responded in the 14th minute with a powerful shot brilliantly saved by Yassine Bounou. As the match progressed, it became clear that Nigeria’s numerical strength in midfield allowed the Super Eagles to build play patiently, while Morocco relied on structured pressing and quick transitions.
The Atlas Lions created the best chances of the first half, with Ayoub El Kaabi missing a close opportunity in the 28th minute, followed by a header from Ibrahim and a dangerous free-kick from Achraf Hakimi that tested the Nigerian goalkeeper.
Despite sustained pressure and several promising attacks from both flanks, the first half ended scoreless — a frustrating outcome given Morocco’s dominance.
Second Half Intensity and Missed Chances
The second half began with stronger physical duels, reflecting the growing intensity of the contest. Morocco remained the more proactive side, with Ezzalzouli coming close in the 52nd minute after a curling effort was tipped wide.
As Nigeria gradually pushed forward, Morocco maintained defensive discipline while continuing to search for a breakthrough. Additional chances fell to El Kaabi and Ezzalzouli, but the Nigerian goalkeeper stood firm.
Regragui made tactical substitutions late in the game, introducing El Khannouss’ replacements and fresh attacking options, but the tempo dropped slightly as both teams grew cautious.
Extra Time and Penalty Drama
Extra time revealed signs of physical exhaustion on both sides. Morocco managed the tempo intelligently, conserving energy while remaining alert to counterattacking opportunities. Substitutions, including the introduction of Youssef En-Nesyri, failed to break the deadlock.
With no goals after 120 minutes, the match went to penalties — where the Atlas Lions showed composure and mental strength. Morocco converted four spot-kicks, while Nigeria missed twice, sealing a historic qualification for the hosts.
Morocco One Step from Continental Glory
This victory sends Morocco to the AFCON 2025 final, keeping alive hopes of lifting the continental trophy for the first time since 1976. Backed by passionate home support and defensive solidity, the Atlas Lions now stand just one win away from African glory.
