The Super Eagles’ impressive run at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations came to a heartbreaking end in the semifinals against host nation Morocco. After a tense, tactical battle at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on January 14, neither side could break the deadlock over 120 minutes, leading to a penalty shootout. Morocco held their nerve to win 4–2 on penalties, with goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saving key kicks and Youssef En-Nesyri converting the decisive spot kick. Nigeria’s Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi saw their penalties saved, ending the Super Eagles’ hopes of reaching the final. Despite the loss, Nigeria showed resilience, holding the tournament hosts goalless and pushing the game to the lottery of penalties.
Morocco’s victory sends them into the AFCON final against Senegal, where they’ll chase their first continental title since 1976 in front of passionate home support. Meanwhile, the Super Eagles now turn their attention to the third-place playoff.
Third-place showdown vs Egypt – January 17
Nigeria will face Egypt in the bronze medal match on January 17 at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca, after both teams fell short in the semifinals. Egypt were beaten by Senegal, leaving the Super Eagles and the Pharaohs to contest third place in what promises to be another competitive encounter. Both sides will be eager to end their AFCON 2025 campaigns on a high with a podium finish.