Rabat – Morocco have qualified for the final of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 after a dramatic penalty shootout win over Nigeria at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. The match ended 0–0 after extra time, but Morocco held their nerve to win 4–2 in the shootout.
The match was tight and physical, with both teams showing why they are among the best in the tournament. Morocco pressed throughout, creating more chances and registering six shots to Nigeria’s one. Despite their attacking intent, the Atlas Lions couldn’t break through in regular or extra time.
The game went to penalties, where goalkeeper Yassine Bounou became the hero. He saved two shots from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi to seal Morocco’s place in the final. Neil El Aynaoui, Eliesse Ben Seghir, Achraf Hakimi, and Youssef En-Nesyri all converted their penalties with confidence.
This result sets up a showdown between Morocco and Senegal, who beat Egypt 1–0 in the other semifinal. Morocco will now aim to win their second continental title, their first since 1976.
This is Morocco’s first AFCON final appearance since 2004, when they lost to Tunisia. After 21 years, they return with a chance to lift the trophy on home soil.
The match also saw Crown Prince Moulay Hassan in attendance, wearing the national team jersey and cheering from the stands. His presence added to the atmosphere and showed strong royal support for the team.