Kigali, Rwanda – Morocco and Senegal will meet in the Africa Cup of Nations final after both sides secured hard-earned semi-final victories on Wednesday, setting up a compelling showdown for the AFCON 2025 crown.
The hosts edged Nigeria on penalties in Rabat, while Senegal overcame Egypt in Tangier to keep their title hopes alive. Morocco booked their place in the final with a 4–2 penalty shootout win over Nigeria following a tense 0–0 draw after extra time.
The victory sends the Atlas Lions into their first AFCON final since 2004 and puts them one match away from a first continental title in nearly 50 years. Nigeria, meanwhile, will face Egypt in Saturday’s third-place playoff at 5 p.m.
The semi-final in Rabat was a cautious affair, with few clear-cut chances despite Morocco enjoying the bulk of the attacking play.
The hosts registered far more shots and spent extended periods pressing in Nigeria’s half, but they were repeatedly denied by outstanding goalkeeping from Stanley Nwabali.
The Nigerian goalkeeper produced a series of fine saves to keep his side in the contest throughout the 120 minutes. Nigeria struggled to match their earlier attacking form.
Despite entering the semi-final as the tournament’s most prolific side, the Super Eagles offered little going forward.
Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman found it difficult to break through Morocco’s organized defence, while full-backs Achraf Hakimi and Noussair Mazraoui played influential roles in both attack and defence for the hosts.
Morocco also had moments where they could have taken the lead. Ayoub El Kaabi hesitated over a close-range chance in the first half, while Nayef Aguerd later saw a header strike the outside of the post.
With neither side able to find a breakthrough, the match drifted towards penalties, a shootout in which Yassine Bounou emerged as the hero.
He saved penalties from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi, while Paul Onuachu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru converted for Nigeria. Youssef En-Nesyri then scored the decisive spot kick to secure Morocco’s place in the final.
Earlier in Tangier, Senegal edged Egypt 1–0 thanks to a late goal from Sadio Mané in the 78th minute. Senegal dominated possession for much of the match, while Egypt defended resolutely but struggled to create meaningful chances.
The win booked Senegal’s return to the final, where they will aim to add another continental title. Morocco and Senegal now turn their focus to Sunday’s final in Rabat, while Nigeria and Egypt prepare to contest third place a day earlier.
