Paul ELLIS / AFP via Getty Images.
The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as Nigeria’s Super Eagles face off against host nation Morocco’s Atlas Lions in the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 today at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Kick-off is scheduled for 9:00 PM local time (20:00 GMT), with both teams vying for a spot in the final against the winner of the Egypt-Senegal clash.
This heavyweight encounter pits two undefeated sides against each other, charged with history, ambition, and immense pressure on home soil for Morocco.
Nigeria, three-time AFCON champions (1980, 1994, 2013), have been in scintillating form throughout the tournament. The Super Eagles advanced to the semis after a convincing 2-0 victory over Algeria in the quarter-finals, where star striker Victor Osimhen scored and assisted. Under coach Eric Chelle, they’ve showcased a blend of defensive solidity and lethal counter-attacks. Osimhen, the Galatasaray forward has been pivotal with his goal-scoring prowess and leadership. Flanking him is Ademola Lookman of Atalanta, whose pace and creativity have unlocked defenses, netting three goals so far. Midfield maestro Alex Iwobi provides the engine room stability, while goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has kept clean sheets in key matches. Nigeria aims for their fourth title, drawing on past triumphs over hosts, like their 1-0 win against Mali in 2002.
Morocco, the tournament hosts, are chasing their first AFCON crown since 1976 and have thrived under the guidance of Walid Regragui. The Atlas Lions boast an impressive record, including a dominant run to the semis with stellar defensive displays. Right-back Achraf Hakimi, the Paris Saint-Germain sensation, is a standout star, offering both defensive resilience and attacking flair with his overlapping runs and precise crosses. Brahim Diaz of Real Madrid adds creativity in midfield, while forwards like Youssef En-Nesyri provide the finishing touch. Morocco’s home advantage is massive, with passionate crowds expected to turn the 52,000-capacity stadium into a cauldron. Regragui has emphasized learning from stars like Hakimi, preparing for a tactical chess match where possession might be ceded to Nigeria.
Historically, the teams have clashed eight times in AFCON, with Morocco holding a slight edge, including double wins in 1976 en route to their title. Their last meeting was in the 2018 CHAN final, where Morocco triumphed 4-0. Nigeria reversed fortunes in a 1988 semi-final with a 1-0 win. Analysts predict a tight affair, possibly to be decided by individual brilliance. Osimhen vs. Hakimi could be the matchup to watch, with both sides’ stars ready to shine.
As anticipation builds, fans across Africa will be glued to screens.
