Morocco booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in front of an ecstatic home crowd, overcoming Nigeria in a tense penalty shootout. After a goalless 90 minutes and extra time, the Atlas Lions’ dominance — controlling more than 65% of possession — finally paid off thanks to heroics from goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, who saved two spot-kicks to secure a 4–2 shootout victory.

The Super Eagles showed remarkable resilience, defending stoutly with ten men following a second-half red card to their midfielder. Despite their valiant efforts, fortune ultimately favored the hosts. Bounou’s composure between the posts proved decisive, keeping Morocco’s dream of a home triumph alive.

Looking ahead, Morocco will face Senegal in the final this Sunday, setting the stage for a blockbuster showdown between Africa’s two finest sides.

2025 Africa Cup of Nations

Nigeria - Morocco 0:0, shoot-out 2:4

Nigeria: Nwabili; Osayi-Samuel; Ajayi; Onyemaechi; Bassey; Onyeka; Onyedika (Simon M., 83); Lookman; Osimhen; Iwobi; Adams Ak. (Dele-Bashiru F., 98)
Substitution: Simon M. (from 83); Dele-Bashiru F. (from 98)
Bench: Uzoho; Obasogie; Sanusi; Ogbu; Awaziem; Nnadi; Usman Edu; Akinsanmiro; Chukwueze; Onuachu; Ejuke; Lawal Sal.
Yellow Cards: Bassey 33; Onyedika 77

Morocco: Bounou; Hakimi; Aguerd; Masina; Mazraoui; Diaz Br. (Akhomach, 107); Saibari; Ezzalzouli (En Nesyri, 103); El Aynaoui; El Khannouss (Igamane, 84); El Kaabi (Targhalline, 84)
Substitution: Targhalline (from 84); Igamane (from 84); En Nesyri (from 103); Akhomach (from 107)
Bench: Munir; Al Harrar; Chibi; El Yamiq; Salah-Eddine; Ait Boudlal; Belammari Youssef; Amrabat S.; Rahimi S.; Ben Seghir; Talbi