AFCON 2025: Bounou the hero as Morocco survive free-scoring Nigeria test to reach final

Morocco booked their place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Wednesday night after defeating Nigeria 4-2 on penalties, with goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerging as the hero.

The second semi-final brought together two African heavyweights at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah, where a tense and tactical contest unfolded over 120 minutes without a goal.

Morocco enjoyed the bulk of possession during regulation time but struggled to convert the limited chances they created. Nigeria, meanwhile, posed little attacking threat but were largely disciplined and organised, earning plaudits for their overall display despite failing to truly test the Moroccan defence.

For a Super Eagles side that had scored 14 goals heading into the semi-final, the inability to find the net over 90 minutes proved costly. Morocco’s backline deserves credit for effectively neutralising key Nigerian attackers, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams, for most of the encounter.

Extra time produced little change in momentum, with both teams appearing cautious as the match drifted towards a penalty shootout. Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali briefly raised hopes by saving one spot kick, but Bounou ultimately stole the spotlight, denying two Nigerian penalties to seal a 4-2 shootout victory.

The win sends Morocco into the AFCON final, where the hosts will face Senegal on Sunday, January 18, as they continue their quest for continental glory.