Rabat, Morocco – January 15, 2026 – Hosts Morocco booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2026 final after a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout victory over Nigeria, following a tense 0-0 draw after extra time in Wednesday’s semifinal at Rabat.

Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was the hero for Morocco, saving two penalties, while Youssef En-Nesyri converted the decisive spot kick, sending the Moroccan squad and fans into jubilant celebration. Morocco will face Senegal, the 2021 AFCON champions, in Sunday’s final in Rabat, while Nigeria will meet Egypt in the third-place playoff on Saturday.

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First Half: Few Clear-Cut Chances

The match itself offered limited goal-scoring opportunities in the first 120 minutes, with both sides struggling to break the deadlock. Morocco created the better chances, with notable moments from Achraf Hakimi, who delivered a dangerous corner to Ayoub El Kaabi, but the striker failed to capitalize, caught between a shot and an overhead kick.

Nigeria, despite entering the semifinal with the best scoring record of the tournament, struggled to assert themselves offensively. Their talisman Victor Osimhen had little impact, squandering the few opportunities that came his way.

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Morocco Dominate, But Goalkeeper Nwabali Keeps Nigeria in the Game

Morocco continued to press, with midfielder Ismael Saibari creating a strong chance, only for Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to make a crucial save. Defender Nayef Aguerd also came close with a header from a corner that struck the outside of the post.

Despite Morocco’s dominance in possession and chances, neither side could find the back of the net, and the match remained goalless after extra time, setting the stage for a decisive penalty shootout.

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Penalty Shootout: Bounou Steals the Show

Morocco’s composure from the spot proved decisive. Yassine Bounou emerged as the match-winner, saving two of Nigeria’s penalties, including attempts from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi. When Morocco reached their fifth penalty, Youssef En-Nesyri calmly slotted the ball home to seal a 4-2 victory, sending Morocco to their first AFCON final since 2004, when they lost to Tunisia.

The victory also marks a step closer to Morocco’s first continental title in 50 years, with the final against Senegal expected to be a thrilling encounter. Senegal reached the final by defeating Egypt 1-0 in Tangier, thanks to a goal from Sadio Mane.

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Morocco’s Tactical Approach

Throughout the tournament, Morocco has been efficient and workmanlike, relying on a solid defensive structure while creating scoring chances through set-pieces and quick transitions. Wednesday’s match showcased Morocco’s resilience, even if their best form is still developing.

The team relied heavily on long-range efforts and defensive organization, frustrating Nigeria, whose attack appeared lacking in ambition and creativity. Morocco’s disciplined approach paid off in the high-pressure penalty shootout.

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Fans Celebrate Host Nation’s Triumph

Rabat erupted in celebration after En-Nesyri’s decisive kick, with fans expressing hope that Morocco can finally secure the AFCON crown on home soil. The atmosphere was electric as supporters cheered their team’s progress and looked forward to the showdown with Senegal.

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Looking Ahead: AFCON 2026 Final

• Morocco vs Senegal – Sunday, Rabat
• Nigeria vs Egypt – Third-place playoff, Saturday

The final promises to be a marquee African football event, featuring two of the continent’s strongest sides. Morocco will aim to capitalize on home advantage and lift the trophy for the first time since 1976, while Senegal will seek to defend their 2021 title.