The Atlas Lions of Morocco defeated Nigeria 4-2 on penalties after a tense 0-0 draw, securing their place in the AFCON finals for the first time since
The Atlas Lions of Morocco defeated Nigeria 4-2 on penalties after a tense 0-0 draw, securing their place in the AFCON finals for the first time since 2004.
The semifinal clash at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat was a battle of resilience, with both sides unable to break the deadlock across 120 minutes of intense and feisty football.
The Atlas Lions, buoyed by home support, held firm against Nigeria’s attacking threats and eventually triumphed in the shootout.
The match itself was a cagey affair, with Morocco looking sharper in the first half but failing to capitalise on their chances.
Nigeria, missing captain Wilfred Ndidi due to suspension, struggled to impose themselves in midfield, though they remained defensively solid.
Both teams had half-chances, but neither could find the decisive breakthrough, leading to extra time and ultimately penalties.
In the shootout, Morocco’s excellent goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerged as the hero, saving two Nigerian spot-kicks to tilt the balance in favour of the hosts.
Youssef En-Nesyri then stepped up to score the decisive penalty, sparking wild celebrations in Rabat and the other parts of Morocco.
The victory marked Morocco’s first AFCON final appearance in 22 years, keeping alive hopes of ending a 50-year wait for continental glory.
With this result, Morocco will face Senegal in the final on Sunday, January 18.
The Atlas Lions now stand on the brink of history, aiming to secure only their second AFCON title.
For Nigeria, the defeat was a bitter disappointment, as the Super Eagles had looked strong earlier in the tournament.
The final promises to be a thrilling contest, with Morocco’s passionate home crowd adding extra fire to their pursuit of African football’s biggest prize.
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