Morocco and Nigeria delivered a tense, hard-fought semi-final that finished scoreless after 120 minutes. Chances came and went, but neither side found the breakthrough in open play.
With the win, Morocco advances to the AFCON 2025 final, where they will chase continental glory on home soil. For Nigeria, it was heartbreak after a disciplined and resilient display that deserved more—but football, once again, came down to nerve and precision.
The hosts controlled long stretches, while the Super Eagles relied on pace and physicality on the counter. Goalkeepers Yassine Bono and Stanley Nwabali stood tall, keeping the contest alive deep into extra time.
Extra time followed the same script: Morocco pushing, Nigeria resisting. Nayef Aguerd rattled the crossbar with a header, while substitute Igamane went close, only to be denied by Nwabali.
At the other end, Victor Osimhen struggled to find space before being withdrawn late on, a clear sign that both managers were already preparing for penalties.
