Morocco will play for their first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 50 years after edging the Super Eagles of Nigeria in a tense semi-final decided by penalties.
The encounter ended Nigeria 0–0 Morocco after regulation time, before the host nation prevailed 4–2 on penalties at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat, to book a final showdown with Senegal on Sunday.
Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerged as the hero of the shootout, saving penalties from Samuel Chukwueze and producing a brilliant stop against Bruno Onyemaechi. His decisive interventions set the stage for Youssef En-Nesyri to convert the winning spot-kick, sparking wild celebrations among the home fans.
There was visible relief for Hamza Igamane, who had earlier looked distraught after his penalty was saved by Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, as Morocco eventually sealed victory.
For Nigeria, the loss means their wait for a first AFCON title since 2013 continues. The Super Eagles struggled to impose themselves in the semi-final and failed to make the most of their attacking options. They will now face Egypt in the bronze-medal match on Saturday, a fixture offering little consolation after also missing out on qualification for the FIFA 2026 World Cup.
The victory marks a historic milestone for Morocco, who have reached their first AFCON final since 2004, a tournament in which current coach Walid Regragui featured as a player. Achraf Hakimi once again led by example, calmly converting his penalty, while tournament standout Brahim Díaz appeared visibly exhausted on the night.
Morocco will now take on Senegal, who secured their place in the final after Sadio Mané scored the winning goal against Egypt earlier. Senegal are chasing their second AFCON title, having lifted their first crown four years ago.
With only Senegal standing between Morocco and a first continental title since 1976, the stage is set for a blockbuster final in Rabat, pitting the top two African teams in the FIFA world rankings against each other in a fitting climax to the tournament.
