The second Africa Cup of Nations semi-final turned into a real test of nerves. Hosts Morocco faced Nigeria, and throughout the match both teams prioritized caution. As a result, both the 90 minutes and extra time ended goalless — “0:0” on the scoreboard and relentless battling on the pitch.
The tie was decided in the penalty shootout. That’s where Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou stepped up: he saved two kicks and sent his team to the final. Winning the shootout 4:2, the “Maghreb” side delighted the fans in Rabat and the whole country.
Thus, on 18 January Morocco and Senegal will meet in the final. Nigeria will play Egypt on 17 January in the third-place match to finish the tournament with a medal.
Africa Cup of Nations. Semi-final
Nigeria — Morocco 0:0
Penalty shootout — 2:4
14 January, Rabat
Nigeria lineup: Nwabali, Osayi-Samuel, Ajayi, Bassey, Onyemaechi, Onyeka (Chukwueze, 120+1), Onyedika (Simon, 83), Iwobi, Lookman, Osimhen (Onuachu, 118), Adams (Dele-Bashiru, 98).
Morocco lineup: Bounou, Hakimi, Aguerd, Masina, Mazraoui, El Aynaoui, Saibari (Ben-Segir, 108), El Hannous (Igamane, 84), Diaz (Akhomach, 108), Ezzalzouli (En Nesyri, 103), El Kaabi (Targalline, 84).
Bookings: Bassey (33), Onyedika (77).
The best is yet to come: Morocco’s iron will and Bounou’s penalty-saving mood against Senegal’s powerful attack — whose nerves will hold up in the final?
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