Morocco edge Nigeria on penalties to reach AFCON final
Penalty drama in Rabat
Morocco booked their place in the AFCON final after beating Nigeria 4-2 on penalties following a tense 0-0 draw in Rabat. Youssef En-Nesyri scored the decisive spot kick to send the hosts through and spark wild celebrations inside a packed Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
It is Morocco’s first AFCON final since 2004 and keeps alive hopes of a first continental title in 50 years.
Goalkeepers steal the show
The shootout turned on the goalkeepers. Yacine Bounou saved penalties from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemeachi, giving Morocco the edge despite Hamza Igamane missing his effort earlier in the shootout.
En-Nesyri then stepped up and calmly beat Stanley Nwabali to seal the win and set up a final against Senegal on Sunday.
Morocco on top early
Morocco controlled much of the first half, fuelled by fierce home support. They pressed Nigeria high and forced mistakes in possession, with Abde Ezzalzouli going close after stealing the ball near the box.
Brahim Díaz had the clearest chance of the half, curling a shot just wide after cutting in from the right. Achraf Hakimi also threatened from set pieces as Morocco looked the more dangerous side.
Nigeria grow into the game
Nigeria improved as the match wore on. Alex Iwobi began to dictate play and Ademola Lookman tested Bounou with a low shot that was well saved.
Both sides had strong penalty appeals waved away, including a major flashpoint late on when Moroccan appeals for handball were rejected, with no VAR review.
No breakthrough in extra time
Chances continued to come and go in extra time. Nayef Aguerd hit the frame of the goal from a corner, while substitute Hamza Igamane wasted a promising opening after breaking into the box.
Victor Osimhen, who struggled to make an impact, was taken off late on as the match drifted toward penalties.
Final showdown awaits
Morocco will now face defending champions Senegal, who beat Egypt 1-0 earlier in the day. It will be Morocco’s chance to make history on home soil.
