AFCON 2025: Morocco Beat Nigeria 4–2 on Penalties to Reach Final
Morocco have booked their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Nigeria in the semifinals at Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat.
After a tense 120 minutes that ended 0-0, the match went to penalties, where the hosts held their nerve to win 4–2.
Morocco’s goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was the standout performer, saving spot kicks from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi, while Youssef En-Nesyri coolly converted the decisive penalty to seal the win and send the Atlas Lions into the final.
Nigeria fought hard but struggled to find a breakthrough in open play, finishing with limited clear chances, and ultimately came up short in the shootout despite conversions from Paul Onuachu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
The victory sets up a final clash with Senegal on Sunday, with the Atlas Lions aiming to lift their first AFCON title since 1976. Senegal secured their spot earlier by beating Egypt in the other semifinal.
Image Credit: Gazette
Source: PUNCH
