Morocco Edges Nigeria on Penalties to Reach AFCON Final
Morocco beat Nigeria on penalties to set up an Africa Cup of Nations final clash against Senegal. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was the hero for the Atlas Lions, saving two crucial penalties, as Morocco secured a dramatic 4-2 shootout victory after a goalless 120 minutes. The match, held in Rabat on Wednesday, was a tense affair with few clear-cut chances.
This triumph means Morocco, seeking their first continental title in 50 years, will compete for the championship on Sunday in Rabat against reigning champions Senegal. Nigeria, meanwhile, will contest the third-place playoff against Egypt a day prior.
Morocco’s Path to the Final
The semi-final encounter saw Morocco create more meaningful opportunities, though Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made several impressive saves. This was a surprising performance from Nigeria, who had boasted the best scoring record in the tournament leading up to this match but struggled to generate attacking threat. According to SindhNews.com, the Super Eagles displayed limited ambition throughout the game.
Penalties loomed large for much of the second half, with both teams unable to break the deadlock. Morocco’s defense, a cornerstone of their campaign, remained resolute.
The Decisive Penalty Shootout
The shootout proved decisive, with Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi seeing their spot-kicks saved by Bounou. Youssef En-Nesyri then converted the winning penalty, sending Morocco into their first final since 2004.
Morocco’s journey has been marked by efficiency, even if they are still finding their optimal form. They are now on the cusp of a historic achievement. Their final opponents, Senegal, advanced by defeating Egypt 1-0, with Sadio Mané scoring the decisive goal in Tangier.
Looking Ahead
The final promises to be a captivating contest between two strong African footballing nations. Morocco’s disciplined approach and defensive solidity will be tested by Senegal’s attacking prowess. The nation of Morocco will be hoping this is their year to lift the coveted AFCON trophy.