Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has praised Eric Chelle and the Super Eagles of Nigeria for their discipline and resilience following a tense AFCON 2025 semi-final clash in Rabat.
Morocco booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations final after edging Nigeria 4–2 on penalties, setting up a blockbuster final against Senegal.
A TIGHT, TACTICAL BATTLE
Played at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah, the semi-final was a cagey affair that saw both sides cancel each other out over 120 minutes. Clear chances were rare, with the match defined by defensive organisation and tactical discipline rather than attacking flair.
Only six shots were recorded throughout regulation time, underlining how evenly matched the two teams were on the night.
PENALTIES DECIDE THE SEMI-FINAL
With the deadlock unbroken after extra time, penalties were needed to separate the heavyweights. Yassine Bounou, Morocco’s goalkeeper, emerged as the hero, saving spot-kicks from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi to send the hosts through.
REGRAGUI PRAISES NIGERIA
Speaking after the game, Regragui was quick to acknowledge the quality of the Super Eagles and the challenge they posed.
“We came up against a very solid team,” he said. “They are an athletic team; they ran a lot. It just shows why we have been talking about defence for three years now.”
THE MOROCCAN MENTALITY
The former Morocco international, who guided the Atlas Lions to a historic 2022 World Cup semi-final, used the moment to highlight the mentality he has built within his squad.
“We have a fighting spirit, a desire to play for the jersey. That has always been my objective. It was tough, I won’t lie.”
A BRIEF BACKSTORY
Nigeria’s run to the semi-finals under Eric Chelle has been built on defensive solidity and work rate, hallmarks of the Super Eagles’ recent identity. Despite falling short on penalties, their performance reinforced Nigeria’s status as one of Africa’s most difficult teams to break down on the big stage.
LOOKING AHEAD TO THE FINAL
Turning attention to Sunday’s final, Regragui described the showdown with Senegal as a clash between Africa’s elite.
“It’s a superb final with the best African teams of the last three years.”
For now, Morocco will celebrate their semi-final triumph before shifting focus to recovery and preparation for the final.
