Nigeria’s 2025 AFCON Campaign, A Story Of Promise, Pain

https://www.channelstv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Africa-Cup-of-Nations-CAN-semi-final-football-match-between-Nigeria-and-Morocco-6.jpg

Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations dream ended in heartbreak on Wednesday as Morocco edged the Super Eagles 4-2 on penalties in Rabat, denying Nigerians at home and abroad what could have been a powerful consolation after missing out on qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerged the hero for Morocco, saving from Samuel Chukwueze and brilliantly denying Bruno Onyemaechi in the shoot-out. His heroics allowed Youssef En-Nesyri to convert the decisive kick, sparking wild celebrations inside the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

There was a moment of relief for Moroccan forward Hamza Igamane, who had appeared distraught after his effort was saved by Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. He was the only Moroccan player to miss, with captain Achraf Hakimi among those who converted their penalties.

The match had ended 0-0 after extra time, a tense stalemate that reflected the grit of both sides.

Get match analyses here, here and here.

Nigeria’s Campaign: A Story Of Promise, Pain

Nigeria’s forward #09 Victor Osimhen (C) gestures next to Nigeria’s defender #21 Calvin Bassey during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) semi-final football match between Nigeria and Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium in Rabat on January 14, 2026. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)

Nigeria put up strong performances earlier in the tournament.

The Super Eagles defeated Tunisia 3-2 in a thrilling group stage encounter, with goals from Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, and Ademola Lookman. T

They also thrashed Mozambique 4-0, a result that drew praise but also caution from analysts who urged the team to stay focused.

Nigeria’s squad, a blend of homegrown stars and diaspora talent, had been hailed as a symbol of transformation.

Players like Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, and Bright Osayi-Samuel embodied the new face of the Super Eagles, combining international experience with national pride.

For many Nigerians, especially those abroad, a victory in Morocco would have softened the blow of missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a painful absence for a footballing nation with such pedigree.

Morocco Marches On

Morocco’s supporters cheer before the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) semi-final football match between Nigeria and Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium in Rabat on January 14, 2026. (Photo by Franck FIFE / AFP)

Morocco will now face Senegal in Sunday’s final after the Lions of Teranga defeated Mohamed Salah’s Egypt 1-0, courtesy of a Sadio Mane strike. The clash pits Africa’s top two FIFA-ranked teams against each other, promising a fitting showpiece.

Coach Walid Regragui’s Morocco are under immense pressure to deliver a first AFCON title in 50 years, but buoyed by home support, they remain confident of ending the drought.