Get ready for an intense battle as Nigeria takes on Morocco in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations! This highly anticipated clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams bringing their A-game to secure a spot in the final.
The Road to Rabat
Nigeria, the Super Eagles, have been flying high since the start of the tournament. They entered as one of the favorites and have delivered an impressive performance, winning every match so far. Their quarter-final victory over Algeria, a convincing 2-0 win, showcased their dominance and sealed their place in the semi-finals.
On the other side, hosts Morocco, the Atlas Lions, have roared their way through the competition. Topping Group A and remaining undefeated, their only minor slip-up was a 1-1 draw against Mali. But they bounced back with a vengeance, thrashing Zambia 3-0 and edging past Tanzania 1-0, thanks to a crucial goal from Brahim Diaz.
And speaking of Diaz, the Real Madrid midfielder has been on fire, finding the back of the net in the quarter-finals as well. Morocco's quarter-final victory over Cameroon, another 2-0 win, has put them one step away from the ultimate glory.
A Star-Studded Showdown
Both teams boast an impressive lineup of players, making this semi-final a highly anticipated spectacle. With star-studded squads, Nigeria and Morocco are expected to put on a show, battling it out for a place in the AFCON final.
But here's where it gets controversial... Will Nigeria's impressive run continue, or will Morocco's home advantage and determination to lift the trophy prevail?
And this is the part most people miss... The pressure is on for Morocco's coach, Walid Regragui, as he aims to deliver the trophy to the passionate home fans.
As the match unfolds, we'll witness the tactical brilliance of both teams, the skill of their star players, and the intense atmosphere of the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Stay tuned for live updates, as we bring you every twist and turn of this epic encounter!
Live Updates
- 4': Early scare for Nigeria as Ajayi is caught out of position, but a superb recovery slide tackle denies El Kaabi a clear chance.
- 8': Morocco presses, targeting Diaz, but Bassey reads it well and clears the danger.
- 10': Close call! Diaz curls a shot towards the far corner, but it just sails past the post.
- 14': Lookman tests Bono with a powerful shot, but the Moroccan keeper makes a great save.
- 24': Morocco dominates early exchanges, with the home crowd jeering every Nigerian touch.
- 28': Free kick to Morocco after a handball claim. Hakimi delivers a teasing cross, but it's just wide.
- 33': Free kick for Morocco as Bassey is booked. A harsh call, but a dangerous set-piece opportunity.
- 37': Bassey's booking could be a big blow for Nigeria if they reach the final.
- 40': Good save! Ezzalzouli tests Nwankwo with a speculative shot.
- 43': Half-time: Nigeria 0-0 Morocco. A tight, stop-start first half.
- 45': Second half underway! Nigeria comes out strong, pressing forward.
- 51': Bruno and Lookman combine, but the cross is cleared. Onyedika's rebound shot goes wide.
- 52': Good save by Nwankwo! Ezzalzouli's curling effort is denied.
- 55': Morocco presses cautiously, but Nigeria is harried as soon as they cross the halfway line.
- 59': Free kick for Morocco. Osayi-Samuel penalised for wrestling Ezzalzouli.
- 60': Ezzalzouli sends a low ball into the box, but Nwankwo gathers it.
- 63': Osimhen has been quiet. Nigeria tries long balls, but Morocco is doubling up on him.
- 66': Neither side has had a clear chance yet. Defences holding firm.
- 76': Ezzalzouli delivers a cross, but Nwabali is caught out. Corner for Morocco.
- 77': Hakimi's corner drifts wide.
- 80': The home crowd is buzzing! Ezzalzouli's shot is blocked by Nwabali.
- 83': Morocco turns up the pressure!
- 84': Substitutions: Moses Simon for Nigeria, Targhalline and Igamane for Morocco.
- 86': Bassey's long ball to Adams is controlled, but Nigeria struggles to create chances.
- 88': The home fans keep whistling. Can Nigeria find a goal?
- 90': Three added minutes. First half of extra time underway!
- 92': Corner for Morocco. Ezzalzouli and Osayi-Samuel battle down the left.
- 93': Aguerd heads a ball at the back post, but it goes into the side-netting.
- 96': Igamane nutmegs Osayi-Samuel and Onyeka, drifts in from the left, but his shot is wide.
- 98': Lookman's corner is cleared by Mazraoui.
- 99': Substitution for Nigeria: Fisayo Dele-Bashiru replaces Akor Adams.
- 102': Morocco makes a change: Youssef En-Nesyri replaces Ezzalzouli.
- 105': Second half of extra time begins!
- 108': Diaz is subbed off, Akhomach comes on.
- 118': Changes for both sides. Osimhen off, Onuachu on for Nigeria. Ben Seghir replaces Saibari for Morocco.
- AET: Nigeria 0-0 Morocco. Game heads to penalties!
Penalties
Nigeria:
1. Onyeka - Scored
2. Lookman - Scored
3. Nwabali - Missed
4. Osayi-Samuel - Scored
Morocco:
1. En-Nesyri - Scored
2. Hakimi - Scored
3. El Kaabi - Scored
4. Saibari - Scored
Final Score: Nigeria 0-0 Morocco (2-4 PK)
Morocco advances to the final! A tense penalty shootout decides the outcome.
What a thrilling encounter! Who do you think will lift the AFCON trophy? Share your predictions and thoughts in the comments below!
