By Samuel Adeola
Nigeria’s quest for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title ended in heartbreak on Tuesday night as the Super Eagles lost 4-2 on penalties to host nation Morocco in the semi-final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat.
The encounter ended goalless after 120 minutes, with both sides cancelling each other out in regulation time and extra time.
Nigeria remained solid defensively, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali making key saves, while Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman led the attack.
The match was decided in the shootout after missed chances from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi proved costly.
Morocco converted four penalties, with Youssef En-Nesyri scoring the decisive kick to seal victory.
The defeat brings Nigeria’s impressive AFCON campaign to an end, while Morocco advance to the final on home soil.
The Super Eagles will now turn their attention to the third-place playoff.
