RABAT, Morocco – Morocco booked their place in this weekend’s Africa Cup of Nations final with a heart-stopping 4-2 penalty shootout victory over Nigeria, setting up a blockbuster clash with Senegal after the defending champions knocked out Mohamed Salah’s Egypt.
The Atlas Lions needed heroics from goalkeeper Yassine Bounou to secure their spot in front of a raucous crowd of 65,000 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. The Al-Hilal shot-stopper saved twice in the shootout after Wednesday’s semi-final finished goalless through 120 minutes.
Bounou’s crucial saves from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi paved the way for Youssef En-Nesyri to slot home the winning penalty, sparking wild celebrations across the Moroccan capital.
“It was one of the hardest matches we have had against a very solid and talented team,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui, whose side are chasing their first AFCON title in 50 years.
The only blemish for the hosts came when Hamza Igamane saw his second penalty saved by Nigeria keeper Stanley Nwabali, leaving the young forward visibly distraught before his teammates rallied around him.
The defeat represents another crushing blow for Nigeria, who entered the tournament as one of the favorites after scoring 14 goals in their opening five matches. Led by African Player of the Year winners Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, the Super Eagles had looked the most impressive side until Wednesday’s stalemate.
“I am proud of my players but disappointed for them because the reality is we were maybe the best team at this AFCON,” said Nigeria coach Eric Chelle.
Earlier in Tangier, Sadio Mané struck a 78th-minute winner to give Senegal a 1-0 victory over Egypt, simultaneously ending Mohamed Salah’s latest bid for continental glory.
The 33-year-old Mané, playing in what he announced would be his final AFCON, dominated a cagey encounter against the seven-time champions.
“I’m very happy to be able to play in my very last AFCON,” said the former Liverpool star. “I hope to win it and bring the trophy back to Dakar.”
For Salah, it marks yet another disappointment in his quest for AFCON success. The Liverpool superstar has now reached five tournaments without lifting the trophy, with two runner-up finishes his best returns.
“The Africa Cup of Nations is the most difficult competition in the world,” Mané said of his former Anfield teammate. “Mohamed is one of the best players in the world.”
Saturday’s final will pit Morocco’s passionate home support against Senegal’s championship experience, with the Teranga Lions seeking to defend their 2022 title.
Regragui, who played in Morocco’s last final appearance in 2004, knows his team face a stern test against the defending champions.
“We will need to recover quickly because we put a lot of energy into the game,” he said. “It is a great gift for the Moroccan people to be in the final.”
The stage is now set for a captivating conclusion to an enthralling tournament, as Morocco aim to end their 50-year wait for continental glory against a Senegal side determined to retain their crown.
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