AFCON 2025: Morocco Defeat Nigeria on Penalties to Reach Final

Morocco have booked their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final after edging past Nigeria in a dramatic semifinal decided by penalties.

The highly anticipated clash between two tournament heavyweights ended goalless after 90 minutes, with neither side able to find a breakthrough despite several chances. Extra time also failed to produce a goal, forcing the contest to be settled from the penalty spot.

The shootout delivered intense drama. Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali gave Nigeria early hope by saving the opening penalty from Igamane. However, Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou quickly swung the momentum, denying a poorly taken spot kick before producing another crucial save from Bruno Onyemaechi.

With the pressure at its peak, Youssef En-Nesyri calmly stepped up and smashed home the decisive penalty, sending the stadium into wild celebrations as Morocco sealed their place in the final.

The Atlas Lions will now face Senegal in Sunday’s showpiece final, after Sadio Mané inspired the Teranga Lions to victory over Egypt earlier in the day.