Hosts Morocco survived a tense and dramatic night in Rabat to edge past Nigeria 4–2 on penalties and secure their place in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations.
After 120 minutes of goalless football, the semi-final was settled from the spot, where Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerged as the hero. The former Sevilla shot-stopper saved penalties from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi, swinging the shootout firmly in the hosts’ favour.
The decisive moment arrived when Youssef En-Nesyri calmly rolled home the winning spot kick into the bottom corner, sparking wild celebrations inside the packed stadium.
First Afcon Final in Over Two Decades
The victory sends the Atlas Lions into their first Africa Cup of Nations final since 2004, as they chase a first continental crown since lifting the trophy in 1976. It also keeps Morocco’s impressive home campaign alive, having navigated a series of high-pressure matches under intense expectations.
Nigeria, meanwhile, will rue missed chances both during open play and in the shootout, as their hopes of reaching another Afcon final were dashed despite a disciplined defensive display and several late substitutions aimed at forcing a breakthrough.
Senegal Await in the Final
Morocco will now face Senegal in Sunday’s final (kick-off 19:00 GMT), after the reigning champions edged Egypt 1–0 in the first semi-final.
With history, home support, and confidence firmly on their side, Morocco stand just one win away from ending a 49-year wait for continental glory.