Nigeria’s Super Eagles’ quest for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title ended on Wednesday after a 4-2 penalty shootout defeat to host nation Morocco following a tense 0-0 draw at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat.
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The semi-final was evenly contested over 120 minutes, though Morocco dominated much of the attacking play, registering 16 shots to Nigeria’s two. Despite sustained pressure from the hosts, Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali delivered a series of crucial saves to keep the Super Eagles in the contest, while Morocco’s Yassine Bounou was equally assured at the other end.
Star forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman struggled to impose themselves, as Morocco’s defence, marshalled by full-backs Achraf Hakimi and Noussair Mazraoui, limited Nigeria’s attacking threat while providing width and drive going forward.
With captain Wilfred Ndidi suspended, coach Eric Chelle handed Raphael Onyedika a start, but Nigeria found it difficult to settle and retain possession in front of a packed stadium. Chances were scarce in regulation time, with Brahim Diaz firing wide for Morocco and Lookman seeing a shot saved. Hakimi also went close with a free-kick that landed on the roof of the net.
Nwabali was Nigeria’s standout performer, denying Ismael Saibari and later Abde Ezzalzouli and Neil El Aynaoui as the match remained goalless through extra time.
The tie was decided by penalties, where Morocco held their nerve. Paul Onuachu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru converted for Nigeria, but Samuel Chukwueze missed and Bruno Onyemaechi saw his effort saved by Bounou. Youssef En-Nesyri then converted the decisive kick to send the Atlas Lions into Sunday’s final against Senegal, as Morocco chase their first AFCON title since 1976.
Nigeria will face Egypt in the third-place match on Saturday.
Despite the semi-final exit, billionaire industrialist and BUA Group Chairman, Abdulsamad Rabiu, announced that he would fulfil his 500,000-dollar pledge to the Super Eagles. In a message shared on his official Instagram page, Rabiu praised the team’s resilience, courage and fighting spirit throughout the tournament.
“You fought with your hearts and gave your all. Though it wasn’t meant to be this time, you made every Nigerian proud,” he wrote, adding that the spirit, unity and passion displayed by the team were worthy of celebration.
Rabiu said the reward would be honoured in recognition of the players’ hard work and the joy they brought to Nigerians during the competition, encouraging the team to keep their heads high and build on the experience for future success.
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