Nigeria’s Super Eagles saw their Africa Cup of Nations dream come to an end on Wednesday night after losing 4–2 on penalties to host nation Morocco, following a tense 0–0 draw in their semi-final clash at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
The encounter was tightly contested over 120 minutes, with Morocco enjoying the bulk of the attacking moments. The hosts fired 16 shots compared to Nigeria’s two, but solid goalkeeping at both ends kept the scoreboard blank. Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali and Morocco’s Yassine Bounou produced crucial saves to frustrate attackers throughout the game.
Nigeria’s key attacking duo, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, found it difficult to make a real impact as Morocco’s defence remained disciplined and well-organised. Even in extra time, the Super Eagles struggled to break through the hosts’ back line.
Morocco’s full-backs, Achraf Hakimi and Noussair Mazraoui, were outstanding, constantly pushing forward while also ensuring Nigeria’s wide players were kept quiet. Their energy and control helped the Atlas Lions maintain pressure for long spells.
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With no goals after extra time, the match was decided from the penalty spot. Morocco kept their composure, and Youssef En-Nesyri converted the decisive kick to seal a 4–2 shootout victory.
For Nigeria, Paul Onuachu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru scored their penalties, but Samuel Chukwueze missed his effort while Bruno Onyamaechi saw his attempt saved, ending the Super Eagles’ hopes.
Morocco now advance to Sunday’s final, where they will face Senegal as they chase a second AFCON title, their first since 1976. Nigeria will turn their attention to the third-place playoff on Saturday against Egypt, who were narrowly defeated 1–0 by Senegal in the other semi-final.
