Shootout Heartbreak for Super Eagles as Morocco Advance to Final

Shootout Heartbreak for Super Eagles as Morocco Advance to Final

By Niyi Busari 

Morocco booked their place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Nigeria 4–2 on penalties in their semi-final clash, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The tightly contested encounter ended goalless after regulation time, before the Atlas Lions prevailed in the penalty shootout to eliminate the Super Eagles.

Nigeria initially gained an advantage during the shootout when goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali saved Morocco’s second penalty. However, the Super Eagles were only able to convert two of their spot-kicks, allowing the hosts to recover and secure victory.

Morocco largely controlled proceedings during open play, dominating possession from the first half as Nigeria adopted a more cautious approach in an effort to absorb sustained pressure.

With the win, Morocco will face Senegal in the final of the tournament. Senegal sealed their place earlier on Saturday with a narrow 1–0 victory over Egypt in the first semi-final.

Nigeria, meanwhile, will turn their attention to the third-place playoff, where they are set to face Egypt.