RABAT, Morocco — The Atlas Lions have marched into the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, defeating Nigeria’s Super Eagles 4-2 on penalties after a grueling, goalless 120 minutes at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
In a semi-final defined by tactical discipline and defensive brilliance, host nation Morocco maintained their composure in front of a raucous home crowd to set up a dream final against Senegal. While the match lacked goals in regulation time, it was far from short on drama.
Tactical Stalemate in Rabat
From the opening whistle, Morocco sought to impose their rhythm, with Brahim Díaz and Achraf Hakimi causing early problems for the Nigerian backline. Díaz, the tournament’s leading scorer, nearly broke the deadlock in the 9th minute with a curling effort that shaved the top corner.
Nigeria, however, remained resolute. Led by a “Man of the Match” level performance from Calvin Bassey, the Super Eagles absorbed pressure and looked to hit on the break through Victor Osimhen. Despite the star power on the pitch, clear-cut chances were few. Nigeria’s best opportunity came in the 14th minute when Ademola Lookman’s stinging shot was parried away by Yassine Bounou.
Defensive Masterclass and Post-Match Drama
As the game progressed into extra time, fatigue became the primary opponent. Morocco came agonizingly close in the 93rd minute when a Hakimi corner found Nayef Aguerd, whose header clipped the outside of the post.
In a move that will surely be debated in Lagos, Nigeria coach Jose Peseiro substituted star striker Victor Osimhen for Paul Onuachu in the 118th minute, seemingly preparing for the shootout. Moments later, the referee blew the final whistle, sending the fate of the two African giants to the penalty spot.
Bounou: The Hero of the Hour
The shootout began with immediate tension as Morocco’s Hamza Igamane missed his effort, giving Nigeria an early advantage. However, the momentum shifted instantly when Yassine Bounou—reaffirming his status as a world-class penalty stopper—saved consecutive attempts from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi.
Achraf Hakimi stepped up to bury his penalty with ice-cold precision, before Youssef En-Nesyri hammered home the decisive fifth spot-kick to send the stadium into a frenzy.
Looking Ahead to the Grand Final
The result marks Nigeria’s first defeat of the tournament and sends them to a third-place playoff against Egypt. For Morocco, the quest for their first continental title in 50 years (since 1976) continues.
“We played against a very strong Nigerian team, but our fans gave us the energy to stay focused until the end,” said Morocco manager Walid Regragui. “Now, we have one final step against Senegal.”
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