The race to crown Africa’s football king is well underway, with the 33rd edition of the Africa Cup of Nations entering the semi-finals today.
Morocco will face Nigeria, while Senegal takes on Egypt—a reunion of former teammates Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane.
Hosts Morocco will lock horns with Nigeria’s Super Eagles on Wednesday night in the first semi-final of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, as two continental heavyweights battle for a place in Sunday’s final.
It is a fixture rich in history and ambition, pitting a Morocco side buoyed by home support against a Nigeria team driven by unfinished business.
With the eyes of Africa and the wider football world fixed on Rabat, both nations know that the margin for error could be razor-thin.
For Morocco, this semi-final marks a significant milestone. The Atlas Lions are in the last four of AFCON for the first time in 22 years, a feat achieved through consistency, tactical discipline and the unwavering backing of their supporters.
Playing at home has clearly worked in their favour, with packed stands and an electric atmosphere giving them an extra edge at every stage.
The hosts are now chasing a second continental crown, nearly five decades after lifting their only AFCON title in 1976. Familiar conditions and passionate home support could once again prove decisive as they seek to turn belief into history.
Nigeria, however, arrive in Rabat with their own powerful motivation. Runners-up at the last edition in 2023, the Super Eagles are determined to go one step further this time and reclaim the AFCON trophy they last won in 2013. Their journey to the semi-finals has been marked by resilience, experience and a strong big-game mentality.
The clash also sets up an intriguing tactical duel on the touchline. Morocco’s Walid Regragui, renowned for his compact structure and swift transitions, will pit his wits against Nigeria head coach Éric Chelle.
Morocco’s disciplined defensive shape will be tested by Nigeria’s physical presence and attacking flair, with small details likely to decide the outcome.
Key players are expected to shape the contest. For Morocco, Brahim Díaz has been a standout performer, scoring five goals and providing creative spark throughout the tournament.
Captain Achraf Hakimi’s leadership and ability to influence both ends of the pitch will also be crucial. Backed by the Rabat crowd, the Atlas Lions will look to feed off the energy of the “12th man”.
Nigeria, meanwhile, boast a potent attacking duo in Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman. Osimhen’s strength and movement in the box, combined with Lookman’s pace and creativity, have delivered seven goals between them four from Osimhen and three from Lookman underlining the Super Eagles’ attacking threat.
Speaking ahead of the match, Morocco goalkeeper Monir El Kajoui stressed the team’s focus amid the growing hype. “As players, we hear everything, but the real response must come on the pitch. We trust the coach and the group, and our objective is to honour the national shirt and give our very best,” he said.
Nigeria forward Alex Iwobi echoed a similar sentiment, highlighting unity within the Super Eagles’ camp. “There is a strong sense of togetherness. We always give everything to win, whether it’s AFCON or World Cup qualifiers. Even in difficult moments, we turn disappointment into motivation,” Iwobi noted.
Wednesday’s encounter will be the sixth AFCON meeting between Morocco and Nigeria, and their first at the tournament in 22 years.
It is only the second time the two sides are meeting in an AFCON semi-final, with Nigeria winning the previous one 1–0 in 1980. Their rivalry dates back to 1976, when they first faced off during the group stage.
Under the Rabat lights, Morocco will chase another historic night on home soil, while Nigeria will lean on experience and ambition to edge closer to continental glory.
When the whistle blows, reputation and history will matter little only what unfolds on the pitch will determine who earns a place in the AFCON final.
ALSO READ: A repeat of 2021 AFCON beckons as Senegal take on Egypt in a mouth-watering semi-final
