Morocco is through to the Africa Cup of Nations final for the first time since 2004. The host nation triumphed over Nigeria in a dramatic penalty shootout in Rabat. After 120 minutes of tense, goalless football, it was goalkeeper Yassine Bounou who became the national hero. He saved two crucial penalties to secure a 4-2 shootout victory on January 14, 2026, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. This hard-fought win sets up a tantalizing final against Senegal.

A Tactical Battle Ends in Stalemate

The match itself was a cautious affair, defined by strong defenses and few clear opportunities. Throughout regular and extra time, both teams struggled to find a breakthrough. Morocco, urged on by their passionate supporters, created better chances. However, Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, was in formidable form, consistently denying the Atlas Lions.

Despite entering the semifinal with the tournament’s best scoring record, Nigeria’s attack offered little threat. The Super Eagles were well-organized but failed to test the Moroccan defense. Consequently, the game remained locked at 0-0, making a penalty shootout seem inevitable long before the final whistle blew.

The Decisive Shootout

As the game moved to penalties, the tension inside the stadium was immense. Both goalkeepers made early saves, with Nwabali stopping Hamza Igamane’s attempt. However, Yassine Bounou ultimately proved to be the difference-maker for Morocco.

Here is how the dramatic shootout unfolded:

• ✓Morocco: Aynaoui scores.
• ✓Nigeria: Paul Onuachu scores.
• ✖Morocco: Igamane misses (saved by Nwabali).
• ✖Nigeria: Samuel Chukwueze misses (saved by Bounou).
• ✓Morocco: Ben Seghir scores.
• ✓Nigeria: F isayo Dele-Bashiru scores.
• ✓Morocco: Achraf Hakimi scores.
• ✖Nigeria: Bruno Onyemaechi misses (saved by Bounou).
• ✓Morocco: Youssef En-Nesyri scores the winning penalty.

Bounou’s brilliant saves against Chukwueze and Onyemaechi gave his team the advantage. Finally, Youssef En-Nesyri stepped up and calmly converted the final spot-kick, sealing Morocco’s 4-2 victory.

What’s Next for the Finalists?

With this momentous victory, Morocco advances to the AFCON 2025 final. They will face a strong Senegal team as they seek their first continental title in 50 years. The final promises to be an epic clash between two of Africa’s football powerhouses.

Meanwhile, Nigeria will face Egypt in the third-place playoff. While disappointed to miss out on the final, the Super Eagles will look to end their tournament on a high note.

Conclusion: A Night of Drama in Rabat

In the end, Morocco held their nerve to claim a famous victory. The semifinal against Nigeria was a true test of endurance and character, ultimately decided by the heroics of Yassine Bounou. Now, the Atlas Lions stand just one win away from lifting the AFCON trophy on home soil. Their journey has captivated a nation, and the final against Senegal is set to be a historic occasion.