Morocco end Nigeria’s AFCON campaign in Rabat
Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign ended on Wednesday night after a 4–2 penalty shootout defeat to Morocco following a 0–0 draw in their semi-final clash in Rabat.
The tightly contested encounter at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium produced no goals after 120 minutes, forcing the tie to be decided from the spot, where the hosts converted four of their kicks to Nigeria’s two.
Goalless battle settled by penalties
Both sides struggled to create clear chances in regulation time, with defensive organisation dominating the contest. Nigeria remained disciplined at the back, while Morocco controlled possession for long spells without finding a breakthrough.
Extra time followed a similar pattern, with neither team able to alter the scoreline before the referee called for penalties.
In the shootout, Morocco showed greater composure to secure victory and advance to the final.
Implications for both sides
The result brings Nigeria’s AFCON run to an end at the semi-final stage, denying the Super Eagles a place in the final.
Morocco, backed by home support, move on to contest the championship match after eliminating one of the tournament’s strongest sides.
