Hosts Morocco booked their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final after beating Nigeria 4-2 on penalties after a tense, goalless semi-final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
After 120 minutes, no team emerged victorious but Atlas Lions held their composure on the spot to oust the Super Eagles and set up a thrilling final clash with Senegal.
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Morocco were the more adventurous team during regulation time and extra time, creating several openings but failing to score. In contrast, Nigeria managed only two shots in the entire match, with only one effort on target.
Both sides had moments that tested Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, but neither team could achieve the elusive breakthrough, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.
In a game of limited chances, a shootout seemed inevitable from the start. Tea
Tournament top scorer Brahim Diaz missed a clear Moroccan chance just before the half-hour mark, misjudging Achraf Hakimi's header from a right-wing cross as the Real Madrid forward's effort bounced off his shoulder.
Nigeria's attacking stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman remained without serve throughout the match. Lookman's first-half strike from outside the penalty area was easily saved, while Osimhen struggled to influence the proceedings.
Earlier on Wednesday, Senegal had reached the final by defeating Egypt 1-0 in the first semi-final.
The result means Walid Regragui's side have reached their first AFCON final since 2004 and moved one step closer to a long-awaited second continental title, their first since 1976.
Morocco will face Senegal in the final on Sunday, with both countries looking for a second Africa Cup of Nations title.
