Host Morocco Defeats Nigeria on Penalties to Reach AFCON Final
Host Morocco Defeats Nigeria on Penalties to Reach AFCON Final By Eniola Olagunju Morocco advanced to the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Wednesday night in Rabat after defeating Nigeria 4–2 on penalties following a 0–0 draw after extra time in their semi-final encounter at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. The match remained goalless across 120 minutes, with both teams producing disciplined defensive performances and limiting clear scoring opportunities. With neither side able to find a breakthrough in normal or extra time, the contest was decided by a penalty shootout, which Morocco won to secure qualification for the final. Match Context and Tactical Shape Morocco approached the game with an emphasis on possession and territorial control, circulating the ball across midfield and attempting to create openings through wide areas. Nigeria, by contrast, adopted a more compact structure, prioritising defensive organisation and seeking opportunities through direct transi...