Morocco Beat Gallant Super Eagles On Penalties To Reach AFCON Final

Morocco Beat Gallant Super Eagles On Penalties To Reach AFCON Final

In a dramatic semi-final clash at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, hosts Morocco overcame Nigeria’s Super Eagles in a tense penalty shoot-out to secure their place in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.

The match, played on January 14, 2026, ended goalless after 120 minutes of intense football, but Morocco triumphed 4-2 in the shoot-out, sending the home crowd into rapturous celebrations.

The hero of the night was Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, whose composure and reflexes proved decisive. He denied Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi from the spot, paving the way for Youssef En-Nesyri to convert the winning penalty.

While Hamza Igamane missed his attempt and appeared distraught, Morocco’s captain Achraf Hakimi and other teammates held their nerve to ensure victory. The result was bittersweet for Nigeria, who fought valiantly but were undone in the cruel lottery of penalties.

For Morocco, this victory carries immense significance. Walid Regragui’s side has been under enormous pressure to deliver a first AFCON title in fifty years, and the triumph over Nigeria keeps that dream alive.

The Atlas Lions will now face Senegal in the final, a clash between Africa’s top two ranked teams. Senegal booked their place earlier by defeating Egypt 1-0, courtesy of a decisive strike from Sadio Mane. The final promises to be a fitting showpiece, pitting two giants of African football against each other.

Nigeria’s exit was heartbreaking, especially given their spirited performance throughout the tournament. Two years after losing the final to Ivory Coast, the Super Eagles once again fell short at the penultimate hurdle. Yet their resilience and determination earned admiration, with many describing them as gallant in defeat.

The missed penalties will linger as painful memories, but their campaign showcased the depth and talent within the squad.

As Morocco prepares for the showdown with Senegal, the nation rallies behind its team, hopeful of ending decades of waiting for continental glory. The semi-final victory was not just a triumph of skill but also of mental strength, with Bounou’s heroics epitomizing the Atlas Lions’ resolve.

For Nigeria, the journey ends in anguish, but their fighting spirit ensures they depart with dignity. The stage is now set for a historic AFCON final that will crown Africa’s best on Sunday.