The Super Eagles of Nigeria ended their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 campaign in heartbreak after being edged by Morocco on penalties in Wednesday’s semi-final in Rabat.

After 90 minutes and extra time finished goalless, the hosts claimed a 4-2 win in the shootout to book their place in the final, Footballrover reports.

Super Eagles fall short as Morocco edge semi-final on penalties

Morocco created the clearer chances over the course of the game, while the Eagles managed just two attempts.

Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou proved decisive for the Atlas Lions, saving two penalty kicks, as Stanley Nwabali made one save at the other end.

Despite Nigeria’s strong display throughout the tournament, the fine margins told in Rabat, with the hosts showing greater control when it mattered most.

Eric Chelle explains the key lapses that hurt the Super Eagles

Speaking after the match, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle admitted his side came up short in crucial areas.

“We missed a lot of things – the intensity, tactically, and the movement. Morocco deserves this victory, but our state of mind was good; we fought for every ball. It was not easy for us in this game, but the players gave a good response,” he said.

“It is difficult because we lost on penalties again. It’s sad because we worked a lot during the training session, but this is football, and we have to accept it.”

Chelle also pointed to tactical issues, particularly Nigeria’s pressing game, as a key factor in the defeat.

“We played with 4-4-2 diamond, and when you play this formation, you need to put high pressure because if you don’t do that, you could struggle.

“In the first 15 minutes our pressing was good, but after that every time we missed one metre, two metres, and it was difficult for us because it was difficult for us in the high pressure; technically it was not the same again,” he noted.

The Super Eagles will now turn their attention to finishing the tournament on a positive note with the third-place playoff against Egypt next.

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Last Updated on January 15, 2026 7:45 am by footballrover