Morocco Edge Past Nigeria on Penalties to Book AFCON 2025 Final Spot

 

Morocco Edge Past Nigeria on Penalties to Book AFCON 2025 Final Spot

Morocco Edge Past Nigeria on Penalties to Book AFCON 2025 Final Spot

Morocco have sealed a dramatic place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after overcoming Nigeria 4–2 on penalties in a tense semi-final clash played on Tuesday, January 14, 2026.

The highly competitive encounter, held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, ended 0–0 after 120 minutes, with both sides showing strong defensive discipline but failing to find the back of the net in regular and extra time. The deadlock eventually forced the match into a nerve-racking penalty shootout, where the Atlas Lions held their composure to secure victory.

Penalty Shootout Drama

Morocco were flawless from the spot, converting all four of their penalties through El Aynaoui, Ben Seghir, Achraf Hakimi, and Youssef En-Nesyri. Nigeria, on the other hand, managed just two successful kicks, scored by Paul Onuachu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, as missed efforts proved costly for the Super Eagles.

The Moroccan goalkeeper also played a key role, putting pressure on Nigeria’s takers and helping his side cross the final hurdle into the championship match.

Match at a Glance

Result: Morocco won 4–2 on penalties

Scoreline: 0–0 after extra time

Competition: CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025

Stage: Semi-final

Venue: Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat

A Look at Morocco vs Nigeria Rivalry

This victory further strengthens Morocco’s edge in their long-standing rivalry with Nigeria at the senior men’s level. Across all competitions, Morocco now maintain a slight advantage in head-to-head encounters.

Statistic

Morocco

Nigeria

Overall Wins

6

3

Overall Draws

2

2

AFCON Wins

3

2

Despite Morocco’s upper hand in men’s football, Nigeria recently enjoyed success against the North Africans in women’s football. At the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in July 2025, the Nigerian women’s team defeated Morocco 3–2, showing the fierce competitiveness between the two footballing nations across all levels.

What’s Next?

With this hard-fought win, Morocco march into the AFCON 2025 final, keeping alive their dream of lifting the continental trophy on home soil. Nigeria, meanwhile, bow out with pride after a spirited performance that once again confirmed their status as one of Africa’s football powerhouses.

Football fans across the continent will now be watching closely as Morocco prepare for the ultimate test in the AFCON 2025 final.