AFCON 2025 Semis: Morocco, Nigeria set for historic Rabat showdown
Hosts Morocco face Nigeria’s Super Eagles at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Wednesday, January 14, in the first semi-final of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025—a fixture steeped in ambition, history and continental prestige.
Two African heavyweights collide in a marquee encounter that promises global attention: the hosts buoyed by expectation and home support, and an entertaining Nigerian side aiming to upset the hosts in pursuit of a place in Sunday’s final, reports cafonline.com.
Hosts riding history and home support
By reaching the last four, Morocco have already crossed a historic milestone, making their first AFCON semi-final appearance in 22 years.
Their home-soil campaign has been defined by consistency, belief and the relentless backing of Moroccan supporters, whose presence has made a tangible impact at every stage.
The Atlas Lions will look to maximise familiar surroundings and passionate home support as they push for a place in the final—and a shot at a second continental title, following their maiden triumph in 1976.
Nigeria chasing redemption and a return to the summit
Nigeria arrive with unfinished business. Runners-up at the previous edition, the Super Eagles are determined to atone for the disappointment of 2023 and reclaim the AFCON crown for the first time since 2013.
They enter the semi-final with confidence, buoyed by big-tournament experience and a strong competitive edge that has carried them through high-pressure moments.
Tactical duel: Regragui vs Chelle
A fascinating tactical contest is expected between Morocco head coach Walid Regragui and Nigeria’s Malian-born tactician, Éric Chelle.
Morocco’s compact organisation, defensive discipline and swift transitions will be tested against Nigeria’s physicality, attacking flair and big-match nous. With margins likely to be fine, small details could prove decisive in determining who advances.
Stars in the spotlight and the power of the 12th man
Morocco will lean heavily on the form of Brahim Díaz, whose influence and five goals have illuminated the tournament, alongside captain Achraf Hakimi, whose balance between defence and attack has been pivotal.
Once again, the Rabat crowd is expected to play a central role, generating an electric atmosphere capable of lifting the hosts to another level.
Nigeria, however, possess formidable attacking threats of their own. Victor Osimhen brings power and presence in the penalty area, while Ademola Lookman offers pace and creativity, presenting a stern test for the Moroccan defence.
Between them, Osimhen and Lookman have contributed seven goals—Osimhen with four and Lookman three—figures that underline Nigeria’s attacking potency.
Hunger to write history
Morocco goalkeeper Monir El Kajoui highlighted the focus within the host camp.
“As players, we hear everything, but we know the real response must come on the pitch. We focus on our work, trust the coach and the group, and our objective is always to honour the national shirt and give our very best.”
Nigeria midfielder Alex Iwobi echoed a similar resolve.
“There is a strong sense of courage and togetherness. Everyone feels like family in the Nigerian team. We always give everything to win—whether it’s World Cup qualifiers or AFCON, our mentality is the same. Even in difficult moments, we turn disappointment into extra motivation for our country, our families and ourselves.”
Under the Rabat lights, Morocco will chase another historic night, while Nigeria rely on experience, unity and ambition. When the whistle blows, only what unfolds on the pitch will determine who takes the final step towards continental glory.
Coaches’ views
Éric Chelle (Nigeria head coach):
“At this stage of the competition, clear decisions are required. I’ve been fortunate to work with top-class players, and when you have players who have won CAF Player of the Year awards, it is never easy.
Our strength lies in the group accepting those decisions, because the national team always comes first.
“Morocco are a strong team with qualities and weaknesses. Brahim Díaz is a good player, and the Moroccan team as a whole is very good. We are ready for every scenario. We will give everything and approach every match as if it were our last.”
Walid Regragui (Morocco head coach):
“When you coach the Moroccan national team, every result is scrutinised; that is the reality. I give everything for my country. Yes, mistakes can happen—that is part of a coach’s journey. My focus is solely on our team, because that is what matters most.
“An AFCON semi-final is different from a World Cup semi-final. Before, we were seen as a surprise. Now expectations are different. Our aim is to reach the final and lift the continental trophy.”
