The Super Eagles will battle host nation Morocco for a place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations when both sides lock horns in Wednesday’s semi-final showdown in Rabat, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria enter into the last four carrying serious momentum after a flawless run through the tournament, but standing between them and another AFCON final appearance is a disciplined Moroccan side buoyed by home support and an almost impenetrable defense.
With contrasting styles, plenty of history and a place in the final at stake, this encounter promises to be one of the defining nights of this year’s tournament.
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Recent form
Nigeria’s journey to the semi-finals has been nothing short of impressive. The Super Eagles opened their campaign with a composed 2-1 victory over Tanzania before recording thrilling victories over Tunisia and Uganda to top Group C.
Eric Chelle’s men then took the knockout rounds by storm with a ruthless 4-0 dismantling of Mozambique in the Round of 16. In the quarter-finals, they reinforced their status as top contenders with an utterly dominant 2-0 win over Algeria.
Morocco’s journey to this stage of the tournament has been almost as impressive. The host nation topped their group with wins over Comoros and Zambia, alongside a draw against Mali, before navigating past Tanzania and Cameroon in the knockout rounds.
Throughout the tournament, the Atlas Lions have looked controlled, patient and extremely difficult to break down, conceding just one goal en route to the semi-finals.
History and head-to-head
The history of this fixture slightly favours the Atlas Lions after 11 previous meetings between the two sides. The Moroccans have claimed six wins to Nigeria’s three, with the remaining two matches ending in a draw..
AFCON encounters, however, paint a much tighter picture, with both nations evenly matched across their five meetings at the continental showpiece.
While Morocco hold the overall edge, Nigeria’s pedigree at this stage of the competition is unmatched, with this clash marking a record-extending 16th AFCON semi-final appearance for the Super Eagles.
Team news
Nigeria will be without their captain and midfield anchor Wilfred Ndidi, who is suspended after picking up a second yellow card against Algeria. His absence is a significant blow, both tactically and in terms of leadership.
Raphael Onyedika, who scored a brace in the game against Uganda, is expected to step into midfield, offering energy and ball-winning qualities, though he faces the challenge of filling Ndidi’s influential role in such a high stakes clash.
There is also a late fitness concern over Bright Osayi-Samuel after the full-back limped off in the quarter-finals. Osayi’s deputy Ryan Alebiosu has returned to training but is unlikely to feature.
Morocco, meanwhile, will be without Azzedine Ounahi due to a calf injury, while experienced defender Romain Saiss also remains sidelined.
The major boost for the hosts is the availability of Achraf Hakimi, whose return strengthens them both defensively and going forward.
Tactical preview
Nigeria are expected to line up in their familiar system, looking to control central areas and release their forwards quickly in transition. Ademola Lookman’s movement behind the strikers and Victor Osimhen’s presence in the box remain key weapons.
Morocco by contrast, will look to rely on their structure and patience. The hosts will aim to dominate possession and stretch the pitch through their wide players while banking on their well-organised back line to frustrate Nigeria’s attacking threats.
The midfield battle, particularly in Ndidi’s absence, could prove decisive, while the duel in wide areas may shape the flow of the contest.
What to expect
This semi-final sets up a mouth-watering clash between Nigeria’s free-scoring attack and Morocco’s almost impenetrable defense, all under the intense atmosphere of a partisan Rabat crowd.
Chances may be at a premium, but Nigeria’s attacking depth and confidence in front of goal give them reason to believe. Morocco’s organisation and home support, however, suggests that nothing will come easy.
With fine margins likely to decide the outcome, a tense and tactical battle is on the cards as both sides chase a place in the AFCON 2025 final.
Match details
Fixture: Nigeria vs Morocco
Venue: Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat
Date: Wednesday, January 14
Kick-off: 9:00 PM
Competition: 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Semi-finals
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