Nigeria have been one of the biggest stories of this tournament so far, going beyond what many people expected after the pain of missing out on the 2026 World Cup following their playoff loss to DR Congo in November, Softooball report. That disappointment seems to have fueled the Super Eagles rather than slowed them down.
Under Malian coach Eric Chelle, Nigeria have played with confidence and belief. Even with the pressure that comes with being three-time African champions, the Super Eagles have shown that the “giant of Africa” tag still means something. From the group stage to the semi-finals, they have played fearless attacking football and won every single match.
Nigeria started their campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Tanzania, followed by a thrilling 3-2 victory against Tunisia that sealed early qualification.
Watch highlight below:
Chelle then rotated his squad to beat Uganda 3-1 before Nigeria turned on the style in the knockout rounds, smashing Mozambique 4-0 in the round of 16 and comfortably seeing off tournament favourites Algeria 2-0 in the quarter-finals.
Watch highlight below:
With 14 goals scored in five matches, Nigeria are the highest scorers in the competition. Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi have led the attack, with strong support from Akor Adams.
In midfield and defence, leaders like Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali have provided balance and stability.
Nigeria and Morocco have faced each other 11 times since 1969, with Morocco holding a slight edge overall.
While Nigeria enjoyed famous wins in the 1980 and 2000 AFCON tournaments, recent meetings have favoured the Atlas Lions, including a heavy 4–0 loss for the Super Eagles at the 2018 CHAN tournament.
Ahead of this high-stakes encounter, anticipation was further raised after a message on the Super Eagles’ official X handle noted that they would be facing the host nation for a place in the final on the 14th january.
Morocco, the tournament hosts, topped Group A with seven points after beating Comoros and Zambia and drawing with Mali. Backed by their home fans, Walid Regragui’s side have impressed with strong organisation, disciplined defending and quick attacking transitions.
In the knockout rounds, Morocco beat Cameroon 2-0, with Real Madrid star Brahim Diaz once again showing his quality. Diaz opened the scoring before Ismael Saibari sealed the win, as Morocco controlled the game with calm possession and solid defending.
This is Morocco’s fifth AFCON semi-final appearance and their best run since 2004. Diaz has been a standout player, scoring in five straight matches and becoming the first player in 15 years to score in each of his first five AFCON games. Morocco have built their campaign on defensive strength, conceding just one goal in the tournament and none from open play.
Team news
Team news ahead of the semi-final brings a setback for Nigeria, as captain Wilfred Ndidi is suspended after picking up too many bookings. Raphael Onyedika is expected to step in after impressing earlier in the tournament. Bright Osayi-Samuel is also a doubt after picking up a knock against Algeria, while Cyriel Dessers has withdrawn due to injury.
Calvin Bassey has been rock solid at the back for Nigeria, while Alex Iwobi has enjoyed one of his best international runs, pulling the strings behind the attacking trio of Lookman, Adams and Osimhen.
Morocco welcome back captain Achraf Hakimi, which is a big boost, although Azzedine Ounahi and Romain Saiss remain sidelined. Diaz will once again be their main attacking threat as the hosts look to reach another AFCON final.
Possible Lineups
Nigeria; Nwabali, Osayi-Samuel Ajayi, Bassey, Onyemaechi, Onyeka Onyedika, Iwobi, Lookman, Adams, Osimhen
Morocco; Bono, Hakimi, Aguerd, Masina, Mazraoui, El Khannouss, El Aynaoui, Saibari ,Diaz, Ezzalzouli, El Kaabi
Prediction
Nigeria have handled every challenge at this tournament with confidence and maturity. Even without Ndidi, their balance across the pitch and sharp attack makes them a serious threat. Morocco will be tough to break down at home, but Nigeria’s form going forward suggests they can find a way through. A strong Super Eagles performance could see Nigeria edge this one and book a place in the final.
Where to watch
| country | broadcaster |
| Nationwide | beIN SPORTS Connect |
