Source: Alamy Stock Photo

AFCON title to be decided between Morocco and Senegal

The Moroccan capital Rabat witnessed a fascinating football night, as the host nation secured their place in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Nigeria 4–2 on penalties, following a goalless draw after both regular and extra time, in a match marked by tactical caution and intense competitiveness until the very end.

The undisputed hero of the encounter was goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, who continued his outstanding form by saving two decisive penalties, before Youssef En-Nesyri stepped up to convert the final kick successfully, igniting celebrations among the Moroccan fans and guiding the “Atlas Lions” to their first continental final since 2004, reviving hopes of ending a half-century wait for the title.

Despite the match stretching to 120 minutes, clear-cut chances were relatively limited, with Morocco enjoying a noticeable edge in possession and attacking threat, while Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali also produced several important saves to keep his side in the contest.

Unlike earlier rounds, Nigeria — who had boasted the tournament’s most potent attacking line before this stage — appeared subdued going forward, relying on individual efforts that failed to pose a serious threat to the Moroccan goal.

Key moments of the match

The game began with exchanges at both ends, as Brahim Díaz came close to opening the scoring early with a deflected shot that went narrowly wide of the post, before Ademola Lookman responded with an effort from outside the box that Bounou dealt with confidently.

As the match progressed, Morocco increased the pressure. Ayoub El Kaabi missed a golden opportunity, Achraf Hakimi sent a set-piece just over the crossbar, and Nwabali excelled in denying a powerful strike from Ismaël Saibari, as the first half ended goalless.

In the second half, the hosts continued their search for the opener. Abdessamad Ezzalzouli came close on two occasions, while Nayef Aguerd’s header struck the post, pushing the contest towards extra time and eventually penalties, where Bounou’s brilliance proved decisive.

After the match, head coach Walid Regragui expressed his pride in his players’ performance, stating that having “the best goalkeeper in the world” gave his team a clear advantage in the shootout, while also praising the strength of the Nigerian side.

Achraf Hakimi, in turn, stressed that the objective is to lift the trophy and dedicate it to the King and the Moroccan fans.

In the other semi-final, Senegal booked their place in the final after defeating Egypt 1–0, with star forward Sadio Mané scoring the decisive goal in the 78th minute, in a match that evoked memories of the 2021 final.

The “Lions of Teranga” dominated proceedings, capitalizing on Egypt’s deep defensive approach, before Mané settled the encounter with a precise low finish.

As a result, Morocco will face Senegal in a highly anticipated final on Sunday in Rabat, while Egypt and Nigeria will contest the third-place playoff, bringing an exciting and dramatic edition of the tournament to its conclusion.

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Key moments of the match

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