Rabat, Morocco – In a dramatic conclusion to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final, the Atlas Lions of Morocco have booked their place in the continental final after defeating Nigeria in a tense penalty shootout. The match, held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, ended 0-0 after 120 minutes, setting the stage for heroics between the posts.
Atlas Lions Advance After Penalty Drama
The semi-final clash against the Super Eagles was a tight affair, characterized by defensive solidity from both sides but lacking the cutting edge in the final third. Moroccan defender Noussair Mazraoui, a key figure in the squad, played a crucial role in anchoring the defence that successfully neutralized Nigeria’s potent attack throughout regulation and extra time.
The deadlock required the lottery of penalties, where Morocco’s goalkeeper, Yassine Bounou, emerged as the undisputed hero. Bounou, known affectionately as Bono, produced two crucial saves, denying Nigeria’s Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi, to secure a 4-2 victory in the shootout.
A Tense 120 Minutes
The build-up to this semi-final promised fireworks, given Nigeria’s impressive scoring record in the tournament, having netted 14 goals in their previous five outings. However, Morocco’s tactical discipline, marshalled effectively by players like Mazraoui, ensured the Super Eagles struggled to create clear-cut opportunities.
The first half saw flashes of brilliance from the hosts. Ayoub El Kaabi found himself with a close-range chance following an Achraf Hakimi corner, but the Nigerian defence reacted swiftly. Ismael Saibari also tested Stanley Nwabali with a well-worked effort, but the Nigerian keeper held firm. For Nigeria, the absence of star striker Victor Osimhen in the shootout was a blow, though his impact during the game was also curtailed by the Moroccan backline.
Morocco came closest to breaking the deadlock in open play when Nayef Aguerd’s header struck the outside of the post, a near miss that highlighted the fine margins governing the contest. As the clock ticked past the 90th minute and then the 120th, penalties became an increasingly likely outcome, a scenario Morocco navigated with greater composure.
Mazraoui's Contribution to the Defensive Wall
Noussair Mazraoui, the Bayern Munich right-back, has been instrumental in Morocco’s AFCON 2025 run. His presence on the field provides not only defensive stability but also crucial support in transitioning the ball forward. In this semi-final, his disciplined positioning helped stifle the wide threats posed by the Super Eagles, ensuring Bounou was rarely exposed.
The pressure on the Moroccan side was immense, as they were carrying the hopes of the home crowd seeking a first AFCON title in 50 years. Mazraoui’s experience in high-stakes European football proved invaluable in keeping the collective focus sharp throughout the grueling extra time.
The Penalty Shootout Showdown
The penalty shootout began with drama as Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali saved the first kick from Morocco’s Hamza Igamane. However, the momentum shifted decisively when Bounou saved Chukwueze’s effort. Morocco converted their subsequent kicks with precision, culminating in Youssef En Nesyri slotting home the decisive fifth penalty to send the stadium into raptures.
Looking Ahead to the Final
Morocco’s victory secures their first appearance in the Africa Cup of Nations final since 2004. They will now face Senegal in Sunday’s grand finale, a match anticipated to be a true test of strength between two of the continent’s giants. The Lions will be aiming to lift the trophy for the very first time, a feat that would cement this generation’s legacy.
Meanwhile, Nigeria will regroup to contest the third-place playoff against Egypt on Saturday. Despite the semi-final disappointment, the Super Eagles showed resilience, though they will rue their inability to convert dominance into goals during the 120 minutes.
For Noussair Mazraoui and his teammates, the focus now shifts entirely to Sunday. Having weathered the storm against Nigeria, Morocco carries significant momentum into the final, spurred on by the unwavering support of the home nation. The journey to continental glory hinges on one final, decisive performance.
