Host nation Morocco has secured its place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after defeating Nigeria’s Super Eagles in a high-stakes semi-final that was decided by a tense penalty shootout.
The match, held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, lived up to its billing as a clash of continental titans, though it ended in heartbreak for the three-time champions from West Africa.
Tense Battle in Rabat
The encounter was defined by tactical discipline and high defensive stakes. Both sides struggled to break the deadlock during 90 minutes of regulation time and the subsequent 30 minutes of extra time.
- The Atmosphere: A capacity crowd in Rabat provided a deafening backdrop, propelling the Atlas Lions through periods of sustained Nigerian pressure.
- The Result: With the scores level at the end of 120 minutes, the match moved to the penalty spot, where the Moroccan players held their nerve to prevail and send the home supporters into a frenzy.
Nigeria’s Title Hopes Crushed
The defeat marks a painful end to Nigeria’s quest for a fourth AFCON title. Despite coming into the match with significant momentum—including a quarter-final win over Algeria and high-profile financial backing from Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu—the Super Eagles fell just one step short of the final.
The loss also follows a period of intense captaincy leadership from Wilfred Ndidi, who had famously offered to settle player bonuses personally to ensure the squad remained focused on the task in Morocco.
The Final: Morocco vs. Senegal
Morocco’s victory sets up a blockbuster final against Senegal, the 2022 champions.
- Senegal’s Path: The Teranga Lions booked their spot earlier in the evening after eliminating Egypt in the other semi-final.
- The Stakes: Morocco will look to lift the trophy on home soil, while Senegal aims to reclaim their status as the dominant force in African football.
The AFCON 2025 final is expected to draw a massive global audience as the two most consistent sides of the tournament battle for continental supremacy.
Penalty shoot out:
Source: Africa Publicity
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