The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) reached a fever pitch last night as host nation Morocco and defending champions Senegal secured their places in the final. In a night defined by tactical discipline and goalkeeping heroics, Morocco overcame Nigeria in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout, while Senegal edged past Egypt thanks to a late moment of magic from Sadio Mané.
The Atlas Lions stayed on course for their first continental title in 50 years after defeating Nigeria 4-2 on penalties following a scoreless 120 minutes at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. Morocco's veteran goalkeeper, Yassine Bounou, emerged as the hero of Rabat, saving two crucial spot-kicks from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi to send the home crowd into raptures.
Despite the loss, the Nigerian government praised the "Super Eagles" for their resilience. In an official statement, Nigeria's Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated that the team’s performance reflected "discipline, unity, and resilience," adding that the team’s determination remained a "source of pride for the country."
The earlier semifinal in Tangier saw Senegal continue their dominant era in African football. Sadio Mané thrashed home a dramatic winner in the 78th minute, capitalising on a fortuitous deflection to settle a cagey 1-0 affair against Egypt. The victory marks Senegal’s third final appearance in the last four editions of the tournament, though they will have to face the hosts without captain Kalidou Koulibaly, who is suspended after picking up a yellow card during the match.
The defeat ends Mohamed Salah’s quest for a record-extending eighth title for the Pharaohs, as the Egyptian captain cut a frustrated, isolated figure throughout the match.
The results set up a heavyweight final between Morocco and Senegal this Sunday, January 18, in Rabat.
Before the grand finale, Nigeria and Egypt will face off in the third-place play-off on Saturday. While it serves as a consolation for two of the continent's most successful teams, both managers will be looking to end their campaigns on a high note before the spotlight turns to the final showdown in Morocco's capital.
