
Nigeria and Morocco Ready for AFCON 2025 Semi‑Final Showdown in Rabat
Nigeria and host nation Morocco are set to clash in the semi‑final of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025, aiming to book their spots in the continental final. The match will take place at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, kicking off at 21:00 local time (20:00 GMT).
Both teams enter the last four unbeaten. The Super Eagles have won all five of their matches so far, while Morocco have four wins and one draw to their name. This upcoming fixture marks the sixth African Cup of Nations meeting between the two sides, and the first in 22 years at AFCON.
Historic Rivalry Renewed
Nigeria and Morocco share a rich history at the tournament. Their previous encounters include group stage meetings in 1976, 2000 and 2004, and Nigeria’s 1‑0 victory in the 1980 semi‑final, with Felix Owolabi scoring the decisive goal en route to their first continental title. In total across all competitions, Morocco hold a slight edge over Nigeria with six wins to Nigeria’s three, plus two draws.
Nigeria’s Impressive Run
Nigeria have enjoyed a potent campaign, scoring in every match and netting at least two goals per game, a feat they have achieved only once before in AFCON history (in 2000). Their 14 goals so far this tournament is the country’s highest tally at a single AFCON since Cameroon’s 2021 tally, and the team boasts a 21% shot conversion rate, the best at this finals.
Star striker Victor Osimhen has been central to Nigeria’s success, contributing four goals, making him the most prolific Nigerian scorer at this edition. Notably, Nigeria have never lost an AFCON match in which Osimhen has scored or assisted.
The Super Eagles will be contesting a record‑extending 16th AFCON semi‑final, and a win would see them into their ninth final, equalling Ghana’s total appearances in the tournament decider.
Morocco’s Quest for Glory
Hosts Morocco have also enjoyed a strong run, advancing to the semi‑final stage for the first time since 2004 after defeating Cameroon 1‑0 in the quarter‑finals. The Atlas Lions have kept four clean sheets at this tournament, their best defensive showing at a single AFCON.
Morocco’s forward Brahim Díaz has stood out with five goals, becoming the first Moroccan to score in five matches at a single AFCON since 2021. A win would take Morocco into only their second AFCON final, and their first in over 21 years.
All eyes will be on Rabat as these two footballing nations renew a classic African rivalry, with the winner advancing to the AFCON 2025 final in pursuit of continental silverware.