In a tense and tightly contested semi-final clash at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, host nation Morocco advanced to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final after a 4-2 victory over Nigeria in a penalty shootout, following a gripping 0-0 draw through 120 minutes of regulation and extra time.

The match, a heavyweight showdown between the Super Eagles and the Atlas Lions, remained goalless despite moments of intense pressure from both sides.

Nigeria, who entered the knockout stages with a perfect record and prolific scoring form, struggled to break down Morocco’s resolute defense, managing only a handful of shots across the entire contest.

Morocco, buoyed by a passionate home crowd in Rabat, dominated large periods but couldn’t convert their chances, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali producing key saves to keep the Super Eagles alive.

As the game headed to penalties, drama unfolded. Yassine Bounou, Morocco’s world-class shot-stopper, emerged as the hero once again, making crucial saves from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi. Morocco’s takers — including Neil El Aynaoui, Eliesse Ben Seghir, Achraf Hakimi, and the decisive Youssef En-Nesyri — converted confidently to seal the win.

The result sends Morocco into their first AFCON final since 2004, where they will face Senegal on Sunday in a bid to claim their first continental title in 50 years (since 1976).

For Nigeria, the defeat marks another painful penalty shootout exit, ending their hopes of a fourth AFCON crown and first since 2013.

The Super Eagles will now prepare for the third-place playoff against the loser of the other semi-final. Morocco’s progression keeps the dream alive for the hosts, who have shown defensive solidity and composure under pressure throughout the tournament.

• Referee Daniel Laryea

Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Laryea has been appointed to officiate the highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 semi-final clash between Nigeria and the host nation Morocco.

The decisive encounter is scheduled for Wednesday night at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat, where continental giants will battle for a place in the final.

Laryea’s appointment is a strong vote of confidence in his experience and consistency at the highest level of African football.

The 39-year-old official has been one of the standout referees at the ongoing tournament, earning praise for his composure and decision-making in high-pressure situations.

He recently served as Video Assistant Referee (VAR) during Morocco’s tense quarter-final victory over Cameroon, a match that demanded sharp judgment and calm intervention.

Earlier in the competition, Laryea also took charge as centre referee in the group-stage encounter between Algeria and Burkina Faso, where he effectively controlled the pace and discipline of the game.

Widely regarded as one of Africa’s elite referees, Laryea boasts an impressive résumé that includes multiple AFCON appearances as well as regular officiating roles in the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup.

His ability to manage emotionally charged fixtures has earned him respect across the continent.

Victor Osimhen will wear the captain’s armband for the Super Eagles in their semi-final clash against Morocco’s Atlas Lions.

This was due to the suspension of the regular captain Wilfred Ndidi due to card accumulation.

Ndidi received his first booking during Nigeria’s Round of 16 victory over Mozambique’s Mambas and was cautioned again in the quarter-final match against Tunisia.

Osimhen previously captained the Super Eagles in their final group-stage game against Uganda.

The striker was appointed vice-captain of the national team on the eve of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.