Morocco reached the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final after a tense 0-0 draw against Nigeria in the semi-final played on January 14, 2026, in Douala, Cameroon. The match went the full 120 minutes without a goal.
Morocco’s goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was named Man of the Match for his solid display that kept Nigeria at bay. The Atlas Lions will now face Senegal in the final on January 19.
Nigeria dominated possession for long stretches and created several clear chances. They had the better opportunities, especially in the first half. Victor Osimhen headed wide from close range in the 28th minute. Samuel Chukwueze forced a sharp save from Bounou in the 52nd minute.
Ademola Lookman also tested the keeper from a distance. Despite the pressure, Nigeria managed only two shots on target across the entire game, including extra time. That low number surprised many watching the game.
Morocco defended well as a unit. They sat deep, blocked lanes and made it hard for Nigeria to find space inside the box. Sofyan Amrabat and Azzedine Ounahi worked hard in midfield to break up attacks.
Bounou, who plays for Saudi club Al Hilal, stood out with his positioning and command of the area. He claimed several crosses and made key stops when called upon. His performance earned him the Man of the Match award after the game.
The match stayed goalless through 90 minutes. Extra time brought more urgency but no breakthrough. Nigeria pushed forward but could not find the finishing touch. Morocco looked dangerous on the counter a few times.
Hakim Ziyech hit a free-kick over the bar in the 105th minute. In the end, penalties were not needed because the tiebreaker rules for this tournament send the team with the better group-stage record through if scores remain level after extra time. Morocco advanced on that basis.
This result puts Morocco in the final for the second time in three editions. They lost to Senegal in the 2021 final on penalties. Now they get another chance for the title.
Senegal, who beat Egypt 2-1 in the other semi-final, will be waiting. The Lions of Teranga have been strong throughout the tournament. They have not conceded many goals and have quality in attack with Sadio Mané and Nicolas Jackson.
It promises to be a big occasion. Both teams have large fan bases across Africa. Senegal won the 2021 title and will look to defend it.
Morocco want to win their first AFCON since 1976. The build-up has already started with players and coaches speaking to the media.
Nigeria’s exit will be disappointing. They came into the semi-final as one of the favourites. The Super Eagles had a good run, beating Angola in the quarter-finals. But they could not break down Morocco’s defence.
Coach José Peseiro said after the game that his team created enough chances but lacked the final ball and composure. He praised Morocco for their organisation.
Bounou spoke briefly after the match. He thanked his teammates for the hard work in front of him. He said the clean sheet was a team effort. The 34-year-old has been one of the best keepers in the tournament. He has kept four clean sheets so far.
The road to the final has shown how tight this AFCON has been. Several big teams have fallen early. Morocco have stayed calm and consistent. Senegal have shown character in tough moments.
The clash between these two will decide the champion of Africa for 2025. Fans across the continent are looking forward to Sunday. Tickets sold out fast. Broadcasts will cover the game in many countries. It should be a memorable night.
