Morocco secured a spot in the Africa Cup of Nations final with a 4-2 penalty shootout win over Nigeria, following a tense 0-0 draw in Rabat. Yassine Bounou’s two saves and Youssef En-Nesyri’s decisive spot kick sealed the win.
The match was a tight affair, with Morocco creating more chances but Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali making crucial saves. Morocco’s workmanlike approach paid off, and they’ll look to claim their first continental title in 50 years against Senegal.
The 120 minutes before Wednesday’s shootout produced few clear-cut chances, but Morocco created the better opportunities and were repeatedly denied by excellent saves from Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
Nigeria, who entered the semifinal as the tournament’s highest scorers, offered little in attack and delivered a flat, uninspiring performance.
When Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi had their weak penalties saved in the shootout, it underlined a display that lacked ambition throughout.
Morocco were typically industrious and efficient, as they have been throughout the tournament, even if they are yet to reach their best level.
They now stand on the verge of a first continental title since 1976, though their toughest test lies ahead against an impressive Senegal side, who edged past Egypt 1-0 earlier on Wednesday in Tangier thanks to a Sadio Mané strike.
The opening half hour in Rabat passed without any real goalmouth action until Achraf Hakimi’s corner fell to Ayoub El Kaabi just five yards out.
However, hesitating between turning to shoot or attempting an overhead kick, El Kaabi failed to do either, and the chance slipped away.
