Dare Babalola
Morocco’s Atlas Lions have made it to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, beating Nigeria’s Super Eagles 4-2 in a thrilling penalty shootout after a 0-0 draw after extra time.
The Nigerian men fought hard against the hosts, ensuring they conceded no goal in regulation time.
The extra 30 minutes of extra time also ended goalless this leading to penalties.
The match, played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, saw Morocco’s goalkeeper Yassine Bounou make crucial saves, including one from Nigeria’s Samuel Chukwueze. Morocco’s Brahim Diaz, Eliesse Ben Seghir, and Ismael Saibari converted their penalties, while Nigeria’s Paul Onuachu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru scored, but Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi missed.
Morocco will now face Senegal, who defeated Egypt 1-0 in the other semi-final, in Sunday’s AFCON final.
This is Morocco’s first AFCON final since 2004, and they’re seeking a first continental title on home soil.
Earlier, Senegal defeated Egypt 1-0 in a tightly contested semi-final match held at the Grand Stade de Tanger in Morocco to secure a spot in the tournament’s final.
Sadio Mane scored the decisive goal, sending the Lions of Teranga into the final.
