“Penalty Pain: Morocco Ends Nigeria’s AFCON Dream in Rabat”

Nigeria’s AFCON journey ended in heartbreak yesterday as Morocco defeated the Super Eagles 4–2 on penalties after a tense 0–0 draw in Rabat. The Atlas Lions now advance to their first AFCON final since 2004, setting up a showdown with Senegal

Match Recap

Date: January 14, 2026

Venue: Rabat, Morocco

Competition: AFCON Semifinal

Result: Nigeria 0–0 Morocco (Morocco won 4–2 on penalties)

The semifinal was a cagey affair, with both sides showing defensive discipline. Nigeria, missing captain Wilfred Ndidi due to suspension, struggled to dominate midfield but held firm against Morocco’s attacking threats. Ultimately, the game was decided in the cruel lottery of penalties.

🔑 Key Highlights

First Half: Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze looked lively but couldn’t break through Morocco’s defense.

Second Half: Morocco gained more possession (53.9% vs Nigeria’s 46.1%) and created six attempts compared to Nigeria’s one.

Extra Time: Both teams played cautiously, conserving energy for the shootout.

Penalty Drama:

Nigeria converted two (Onuachu, Chukwueze) but missed crucial kicks from Dele-Bashiru and Onyemaechi.

Morocco was flawless, with Youssef En-Nesyri striking the decisive penalty.

🇳🇬 Nigeria’s Performance

Strengths: Defensive resilience, strong goalkeeping from Stanley Nwabali, and flashes of attacking intent.

Weaknesses: Lack of midfield control without Ndidi, poor finishing, and nerves in the shootout.

Standout Players: Osimhen  Chukwueze , Nwabali

🇲🇦 Morocco’s Triumph

Clinical in penalties: Calm and composed execution under pressure.

Historic achievement: First AFCON final in 22 years, chasing their first continental title in 50 years.

Heroes: Achraf Hakimi (leadership) and En-Nesyri (decisive spot kick).

Nigeria showed grit and determination but fell short in the decisive moment. The absence of Ndidi highlighted the team’s reliance on his midfield presence, while Morocco’s composure carried them through. For Nigerian fans, this is a painful exit, but the Super Eagles’ resilience offers hope for the future. Morocco, meanwhile, marches into the final with history on their side.