Morocco kept their Africa Cup of Nations title hopes alive after defeating Nigeria 4–2 on penalties following a goalless semi-final draw in Rabat on Wednesday.
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was the hero for the hosts, saving two Nigerian spot kicks before Youssef En-Nesyri converted the decisive penalty to send Morocco into the final.
Tight Contest in Rabat
After 120 tense minutes with few clear-cut chances, Morocco were rewarded for their greater attacking intent. Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali produced several key saves to keep the hosts at bay during regulation and extra time.
Nigeria, which entered the semi-final as the tournament’s highest-scoring team, struggled to impose themselves. Victor Osimhen was largely isolated, and a heavy touch from the striker wasted Nigeria’s best chance.
Penalty Shootout Decides It
Nigeria’s lack of attacking threat carried into the shootout. Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi both saw weak penalties saved by Bounou.
Morocco had earlier chances to settle the tie. Nayef Aguerd’s header struck the outside of the post, while Ayoub El Kaabi hesitated when well placed inside the box.
Morocco, chasing a first AFCON title since 1976, will face reigning champions Senegal in Sunday’s final. Nigeria will contest the third-place playoff against Egypt.
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