The atmosphere in Rabat on Wednesday night was filled with tension, hope, and excitement as Morocco booked a place in the Africa Cup of Nations final after a dramatic victory over Nigeria.
Playing in front of their home supporters, the Atlas Lions showed patience and strong character to overcome a tough Super Eagles side in a match that went all the way to penalties. It is a historic moment for Morocco, who are reaching the AFCON final for the first time in more than twenty years.
From the first whistle, both teams approached the semi-final with caution but clear intent. Morocco tried to control the game through possession, moving the ball calmly from defence to attack and using the width of the pitch to stretch Nigeria.
Nigeria, on the other hand, relied on quick breaks and physical strength, hoping to catch the hosts off guard. The game flowed from end to end, but clear chances were limited as both defences stayed organised.
The first half saw moments of promise from both sides, yet neither could find a breakthrough. Morocco looked dangerous when Brahim Díaz and Ismail Saibari pushed forward, while Nigeria threatened through the pace of Ademola Lookman and the presence of Victor Osimhen.
However, Osimhen was tightly marked by Morocco’s defenders, who worked hard to deny him space and time on the ball.
As the match went into the second half, the intensity increased. Morocco pushed higher up the pitch, encouraged by the crowd, and came close to scoring when Abde Ezzalzouli curled a shot towards goal. Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali reacted quickly to make an important save and keep his team in the game. Nigeria also had spells of pressure, with Calvin Bassey leading the defence and clearing several dangerous balls into the box.
After 90 minutes, the score remained 0-0, and extra time followed. Both teams looked tired, and the risk of making a mistake seemed to outweigh the desire to attack. Chances were rare, and it became clear that penalties would be needed to decide the winner.
In the shootout, Morocco’s goalkeeper Yassine Bounou became the hero of the night. He showed great calm and focus, saving two Nigerian penalties and giving his team the advantage.
While Nigeria and Morocco both scored some of their early kicks, Bounou’s saves shifted the pressure firmly onto Nigeria. When Youssef En-Nesyri scored the final penalty, the stadium erupted in celebration as Morocco sealed a 4-2 win.
For Nigeria, the defeat was a painful one, ending their dream of reaching another AFCON final. They will now prepare for the third-place playoff against Egypt.
Morocco, however, move on with confidence and belief, knowing they are one step away from lifting the trophy on home soil.
The Atlas Lions will hope this memorable night is a sign of something even greater to come.
