The Atlas Lions of Morocco are one win away from African glory after a tense and dramatic night in Rabat saw hosts Morocco edge past Nigeria on penalties to reach the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
In a semi-final that offered few clear-cut chances, Morocco eventually prevailed 4–2 in the shootout after 120 minutes of stalemate. Youssef En-Nesyri calmly converted the decisive penalty, rolling his effort into the bottom corner after goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerged as the hero, saving spot kicks from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi.
From the early exchanges, the match had the feel of a contest destined for penalties. Chances were at a premium, with both sides prioritising defensive solidity over attacking risk. Morocco came closest in the first half when tournament top scorer Brahim Diaz wasted a golden opportunity just before the half-hour mark. Meeting Achraf Hakimi’s inviting cross from the right, the Real Madrid forward mistimed his header, the ball glancing off his shoulder rather than his forehead.
Nigeria’s attacking stars, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, found themselves isolated for long spells. Lookman registered Nigeria’s most notable effort before the break, driving in from outside the box, but his shot was comfortably gathered by Bounou.
As the match wore on, neither side could find a breakthrough, and extra time failed to alter the balance. That left penalties to decide the outcome, and Morocco held their nerve in front of a raucous home crowd to seal a place in the final.
The victory carries historic significance for the hosts. Morocco have reached their first Afcon final since 2004 and remain on an impressive 26-match unbeaten run, stretching back to their last-16 exit at the 2023 tournament. They now have the chance to lift the continental trophy for the first time since 1976.
Standing in their way are the Teranga Lions of Senegal, who booked their place in Sunday’s final with a narrow 1–0 win over Egypt in the other semi-final. Sadio Mané proved the difference in Tangier, striking a low right-footed shot inside the left post with 12 minutes remaining.
