Host nation Morocco booked their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final after a tense 4-2 penalty shootout victory over Nigeria in Rabat on Wednesday night. Youssef En-Nesyri converted the decisive spot-kick after goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saved efforts from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi.
The semi-final was a cagey affair with few clear chances, ultimately destined for penalties from early on. Morocco’s Brahim Diaz missed the best opening of the first half, misdirecting a header from an Achraf Hakimi cross. Nigeria’s attack, led by Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, was largely contained throughout the match.
Morocco’s win sends them to their first Afcon final since 2004 as they seek their first title since 1976. They will stay in Rabat to face Senegal in Sunday’s final, which kicks off at 19:00 GMT.
Also, Senegal secured their final berth earlier on Wednesday with a 1–0 victory over Egypt in Tangier, courtesy of a powerful late strike from Sadio Mané.
The goal ended Egypt’s hopes and extended Mohamed Salah’s run of semi-final frustration at the tournament.
Speaking after the match, Mané acknowledged his former Liverpool teammate, saying, “It is not easy for him, but still best of luck. He did everything to carry his team until now. Unfortunately one of us had to [lose]. I’m happy [to be] in the final.”
The stage is now set for a high-stakes final on Sunday between the host nation Morocco and a Senegal side led by the in-form Sadio Mané.
