Hosts Morocco will face Nigeria’s Super Eagles at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Wednesday in the first semi-final of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), in a clash rich in history, ambition and continental prestige.
Two African heavyweights will battle for a place in Sunday’s final, with Morocco aiming to capitalise on home advantage and Nigeria seeking to upset the hosts as they push for a return to the summit of African football.
Morocco’s run to the semi-finals has already marked a historic achievement, as the Atlas Lions reached the last four of AFCON for the first time in 22 years. Their campaign on home soil has been defined by consistency, belief and the backing of passionate supporters who have turned each match into a fortress atmosphere.
The hosts will be eager to harness that support as they chase a place in the final and a chance to win a second continental title, having lifted the trophy for the first time in 1976.
Nigeria arrive in Rabat with unfinished business. After finishing as runners-up at the last edition, the Super Eagles are determined to go one step further and reclaim the AFCON title for the first time since 2013.
They head into the semi-final full of confidence, backed by tournament experience and a competitive edge that has carried them through crucial moments in the competition.
The match is expected to feature a fascinating tactical duel between Morocco head coach Walid Regragui and Nigeria’s Éric Chelle. Morocco’s compact structure, defensive organisation and swift transitions will be tested against Nigeria’s physicality, attacking depth and big-match mentality.
With little expected to separate the two sides, fine margins and individual moments could prove decisive.
Morocco will look to Brahim Díaz, whose influence and five goals have been central to their campaign, as well as captain Achraf Hakimi, whose balance between defence and attack has been crucial. The Rabat crowd is also expected to play a key role, acting as a powerful 12th man for the hosts.
Nigeria, meanwhile, boast significant attacking firepower. Victor Osimhen has led the line with four goals, while Ademola Lookman has added pace, creativity and three goals of his own. Together, they have driven the Super Eagles’ offensive threat throughout the tournament.
Morocco goalkeeper Monir El Kajoui said the team remains focused despite the weight of expectations.
“As players, we hear everything, but the real response must come on the pitch. We trust the coach and the group, and our objective is always to honour the national shirt and give our best,” he said.
Nigeria midfielder Alex Iwobi highlighted the unity within the Super Eagles’ camp. “There is a strong sense of courage and togetherness. Everyone feels like family. We always give everything to win, and even in difficult moments, we turn disappointment into extra motivation for our country and ourselves,” he said.
Nigeria coach Éric Chelle acknowledged the challenge ahead, praising Morocco’s quality while expressing confidence in his squad. “Morocco are a strong team with qualities and weaknesses. We are ready for every scenario and will give everything, approaching this match as if it were our last,” Chelle said.
Morocco boss Walid Regragui admitted the pressure that comes with leading the hosts. “When you coach Morocco, every result is scrutinised. Expectations are higher now, and our goal is to reach the final and lift the AFCON trophy,” he said.
Wednesday’s encounter will be the sixth AFCON meeting between Morocco and Nigeria, and their first at the tournament in 22 years. It will also be only the second time the two sides meet in an AFCON semi-final, with Nigeria winning the previous last-four clash 1–0 in 1980.
