The clash between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Atlas Lions of Morocco takes centre stage on Wednesday night in Rabat, with a place in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final on the line.
Under the lights of the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, two unbeaten teams with very different strengths will battle for a shot at continental glory.
Nigeria arrive as the tournament’s most exciting attacking side, while Morocco have built their run on control and defensive strength.
With history, pride, and a final ticket at stake, this AFCON 2025 semi-final game promises tension from start to finish.
Nigeria vs Morocco: Free-Scoring Super Eagles Face Atlas Lions Wall
Nigeria vs Morocco is a classic clash of styles. The Super Eagles have lit up AFCON 2025 with pace, power, and goals. They have won all five matches so far, scoring freely (14 goals) and growing stronger with each round.
Under Eric Chelle, Nigeria have found balance between physical play and quick attacking moves. The partnership between Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams has been central to their success, stretching defences and creating chances almost at will.
Morocco, on the other hand, has taken a calmer path. Walid Regragui’s Atlas Lions focus on structure, patience, and discipline.
They have conceded just once in the tournament and remain one of the hardest teams to break down. Playing at home, backed by a passionate crowd, they will be confident in their approach.
Nigeria vs Morocco: Key Battles, Team News, and History
This clash will be their first AFCON meeting in over two decades. Past encounters have often been decisive, with every AFCON game between them producing a winner.
However. Morocco holds a slight edge overall with six wins and two draws in 11 meetings, but Nigeria has fond memories of key victories on the continental stage.
Nigeria must cope without captain Wilfred Ndidi, suspended after the quarter-final win over Algeria. His absence in midfield is a huge concern, though Raphael Onyedika is expected to step in.
There are also fitness questions over Bright Osayi-Samuel, while Cyriel Dessers has already been ruled out of the competition completely.
Morocco are missing Azzedine Ounahi and Romain Saiss, but the return of Achraf Hakimi is a major boost. His energy on the right flank adds both defensive cover and attacking threat.
Key players could decide the outcome. Lookman’s creativity and Osimhen’s movement will test Morocco’s defence, while Brahim Díaz remains the hosts’ main danger.
The Real Madrid forward is chasing an AFCON scoring record and will relish the big stage.
Expected line-ups
Nigeria
Nwabali; Osayi-Samuel, Ajayi, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Onyeka, Onyedika, Iwobi; Lookman; Osimhen, Adams
Morocco
Bono; Hakimi, Aguerd, Masina, Mazraoui; El Khannouss, El Aynaoui, Saibari; Diaz, Ezzalzouli, El Kaabi.
Verdict
Nigeria vs Morocco is expected to be tight and intense. Morocco’s organisation and home support make them tough opponents, but Nigeria’s confidence and attacking form are hard to ignore.
A first goal could shape the entire night, especially if it forces Morocco to open up.
One unbeaten run will end in Rabat. The winner moves one step closer to lifting the AFCON trophy.
Prediction: Nigeria 2:0 Morocco