Hosts Morocco take on Nigeria’s Super Eagles at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Wednesday in the first semi-final of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), in a fixture that is steeped in ambition and history.

Two continental heavyweights will clash in a signature African fixture, one that promises to draw attention worldwide; the hosts under pressure, and an entertaining Nigeria side seeking to cause upsets in a chase for a spot in Sunday’s final.

Hosts riding history and home support

With their place in the last four, Morocco have already ticked one history box; this is their first semi-final appearance in 22 years.

Their journey on home soil has been defined by consistency, belief and the roaring backing of a home crowd that has made a tangible difference in every step.

The Atlas Lions will be eager to make the most of familiar surroundings and passionate support as they push for a place in the final, and a shot at a second continental title, following their maiden triumph in 1976.

Nigeria chasing redemption and a return to the summit

On the other side, Nigeria arrive with unfinished business. Runners-up at the previous edition, the Super Eagles are determined to atone for the disappointment of 2023 and reclaim the AFCON crown for the first time since 2013.

They step into the semi-final with confidence, buoyed by experience at the highest level and a strong competitive character that has driven them through especially in decisive matches.

Tactical duel: Regragui vs Chelle

A compelling tactical battle is expected between the two tacticians, Morocco’s Walid Regragui, and Malian Éric Chelle, who leads Nigeria out.

Morocco’s compact organisation, defensive discipline and rapid transitions will be tested against Nigeria’s physical presence, attacking flair and big-match know-how. With margins likely to be fine, small details could prove decisive in determining who advances to the final.

Stars in the spotlight and the power of the 12thman

Morocco will lean heavily on the form of Brahim Díaz, whose influence and five crucial goals have lit up the tournament, alongside captain Achraf Hakimi, whose balance between defence and attack has been vital.

The Rabat crowd is expected to play a central role once more, creating an electric atmosphere that could lift the hosts to another level.

Nigeria, meanwhile, boast formidable attacking weapons of their own. Victor Osimhen brings power and presence inside the penalty area, while Ademola Lookman offers pace and creativity, posing a stern examination for the Moroccan back line.

The two, Lookman and Osimhen, have a combined seven-goal haul for Nigeria. Osimhen has netted four, while Lookman has three and this understates their strength in attack.

Players speak: hunger to write history

Morocco goalkeeper Monir El Kajoui underlined the focus within the camp:

“As players, we hear everything, but we know the real response must come on the pitch. We focus on our work, trust the coach and the group, and our objective is always to honour the national shirt and give our very best,” he says.

Nigeria forward Alex Iwobi echoed the spirit in the Super Eagles’ camp:

“There is a strong sense of courage and togetherness. Everyone feels like family in the Nigerian team. We always give everything to win, whether it’s World Cup qualifiers or the AFCON, our mentality is the same. Even in difficult moments, we turn disappointment into extra motivation for our country, our families and ourselves,” he notes.

Under the Rabat lights, Morocco will chase another historic night, while Nigeria lean on experience and ambition. When the whistle blows, only what unfolds on the pitch will decide who takes the final step towards continental glory.

What the coaches said

Éric Chelle (Nigeria head coach):

“At this stage of the competition, clear decisions are required. I’ve been fortunate to work with top-class players, and when you have players who have won CAF player of the year awards, it is never easy. Our strength lies in the group accepting those decisions, because the national team always comes first.

Morocco are a strong team with qualities and weaknesses. Brahim Díaz is a good player, and the Moroccan team as a whole is very good. We are ready for every scenario. We will give everything and approach every match as if it were our last.”

Walid Regragui (Morocco head coach):

“When you coach the Moroccan national team, every result is scrutinized; this is a reality. I give everything for my country. Yes, mistakes can happen; that is part of a coach’s journey. My focus is solely on our team, because that is what matters most. I fight for my country and accept the criticism that comes with it.

An AFCON semi-final is different from a World Cup semi-final. Before, we were seen as a surprise. Now expectations are different, and our aim is to reach the final and lift the continental trophy.

Match facts

This will be the sixth meeting between Morocco and Nigeria in AFCON history, and their first AFCON encounter in 22 years. The two sides meet in the semi-finals for only the second time; Nigeria won the previous semi-final clash 1–0 in 1980.

Their first AFCON meeting dates back to 1976, during the group stage. (CAFonline)

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