Tag: Semifinals

In a dramatic and tightly contested semi-final at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Rabat, host nation Morocco edged Nigeria in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw through regulation and extra time, booking their place in the final against Senegal.

The clash at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah lived up to its billing as one of the tournament’s biggest fixtures, with both sides showing tactical awareness and defensive resilience in front of a packed home crowd. 

Neither team managed to break the deadlock over 120 minutes of intense football. Morocco, driven by a vocal home support and the creative influence of Brahim Díaz, pressed for openings, but the Super Eagles’ defence stood firm for long periods. Nigeria, unbeaten in the competition leading into this match, struggled to carve out meaningful goal-scoring opportunities against a well-organised Moroccan rearguard. 

The match was marked by robust challenges, cautious tactical play, and moments of individual skill, but the scoreboard remained untouched through both 90 minutes and extra time. 

With the scoreline still 0–0 after extra time, the semi-final was decided by penalties. In a tense shootout, Morocco held their nerve to prevail and eliminate Nigeria from the competition. The decisive moments came as both teams traded successful spot-kicks and critical saves, ultimately tipping the balance in favour of the Atlas Lions.

Morocco’s victory ended Nigeria’s bid for an AFCON title this year and propelled the hosts into the final, where they will meet Senegal, who advanced by beating Egypt in the other semi-final. Morocco are now one win away from lifting their first Africa Cup of Nations trophy since 1976, a feat that would cement a historic achievement on home soil. 

For Nigeria, the narrow defeat brings an end to a strong tournament run, one that saw them go undefeated through the group stage and score freely in earlier rounds but falls just short of another final appearance. 

In a fiercely contested Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 semi-final in Tangier, Senegal defeated Egypt to secure their place in the tournament final. The clash between two African football powerhouses delivered drama, tactical discipline, and a moment of individual brilliance that decided the match.

Senegal progressed to the AFCON final with a narrow victory over Egypt, winning 1–0 in a game largely defined by strong defensive organisation and moments of attacking incisiveness. The decisive score came from Senegalese skipper Sadio Mané, who struck late in the second half to separate the sides and send the Lions of Teranga through to the title match. 

While Egypt fought hard throughout the match, they were unable to break down Senegal’s defence or find the crucial goal that would have kept their continental dreams alive. Despite creating opportunities, the Pharaohs struggled to convert them into clear scoring chances, ultimately falling short against a resolute Senegal side. 

The headline narrative of the match was the renewal of the rivalry between Sadio Mané and Mohamed Salah two of Africa’s most iconic footballers who previously faced off in major AFCON knockout ties, including the dramatic 2021 final. 

Mané’s decisive intervention not only put Senegal ahead but also highlighted his continued importance in big games for his nation. For Egypt, Mohamed Salah remained a focal point of attack, but even his influence wasn’t enough to overturn Senegal’s narrow advantage.

Senegal’s approach showcased tactical discipline and defensive solidity, frustrating Egypt’s attempts to gain control in midfield. The team managed to absorb pressure at key moments while remaining dangerous on transition; a blend that proved effective in a match where chances were limited.