By Simon Asare, GNA
Accra, Jan. 15, GNA – Hosts Morocco edged Nigeria 4-2 on penalties on Wednesday to reach the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
The Atlas Lions after an intense 120 minutes triumped on penalties with goalkeeper Yassine Bounou delivering some impressive saves keeping alive hopes of a first continental title in 50 years.
Morocco looked the more likely to score during regulation but failed to convert their pressure into goals.
Nigeria managed only two shots all game, the first from Ademola Lookman in the opening half and the second from Raphael Onyedika after the break.
Morocco’s best chance came in the 52nd minute when Abdessamad Ezzalzouli forced a sharp save from Nwabili, while Ayoub El Kaabi’s acrobatic attempt went wide.
Both sides made attacking changes, with Morocco withdrawing tournament top scorer Brahim Diaz for Ilias Akhomach, but neither could break the deadlock.
Then came the shootouts where Nigerian goalkeeper Nwabili gave Nigeria an early advantage in the shootout by tipping Hamza Igamane’s effort onto the post, but Samuel Chukwueze missed the opportunity to extend the lead with a weak strike.
The Atlas Lions sealed victory when Youssef En-Nesyri sent Nwabili the wrong way, sparking celebrations in Rabat.
Morocco would now face Senegal in Sunday’s final.
GNA
Kenneth Odeng Adade