The Super Eagles face a formidable challenge at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as they take on hosts Morocco in the semi-final at Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah, Rabat, on Wednesday.
Nigeria narrowly lost in the previous AFCON final in Ivory Coast but have impressed in this edition, winning all five of their matches to reach the semi-finals. Eric Chelle’s side leads the tournament in goals and remains the only team with a 100% winning record. However, they face Morocco’s Atlas Lions, who are aiming to end a 50-year wait for a continental title on home soil.
The Super Eagles advanced to the semi-finals with a 2-0 victory over Algeria, thanks to goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams. Morocco, meanwhile, defeated five-time champions Cameroon 2-0 to secure their spot. Both sides are undefeated in AFCON 2025, with Morocco recording four wins and one draw.
Team News
Nigeria
Eric Chelle is expected to name an unchanged lineup, except for captain Wilfred Ndidi, who is suspended and likely to be replaced by Raphael Onyedika. Panathinaikos forward Cyriel Dessers has withdrawn due to a thigh injury.
The attacking trio of Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Akor Adams has been crucial, scoring nine goals collectively. Midfield creativity from Alex Iwobi, supported by Frank Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika, will be key. The defence will be marshaled by Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi, with Bright Osayi-Samuel and Bruno Onyemachi covering the flanks and Stanley Nwabali in goal.
Unavailable: Dessers (injured), Ndidi (suspended)
Morocco
Morocco have dealt with injuries but captain Achraf Hakimi is fit, while Romain Saiss and Girona midfielder Azzedine Ounahi are sidelined. Top-scorer Brahim Díaz, who has five goals, will lead the attack against Nigeria.
Unavailable: Saiss (injured), Ounahi (injured)
Head-to-Head
This will be the first AFCON meeting between Nigeria and Morocco in 22 years and their sixth overall. Historically, Morocco leads with six wins to Nigeria’s three, and two draws. Their last AFCON semi-final clash was in 1980, which Nigeria won en route to their first title.
The Super Eagles aim to overcome the hosts to reach the final and secure their first AFCON title since 2013, chasing a fourth continental crown.
Match Details
- Fixture: Nigeria vs Morocco (AFCON 2025 Semi-Final)
- Date: Wednesday, January 12, 2026
- Time: 9:00 p.m. (Nigerian time)
- Venue: Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah, Rabat
- Where to Watch: CAF TV, Channel 4, Supersport
Overall Records
- Nigeria: P11 W3 D2 L6 | AFCON: P5 W5 D0 L0
- Morocco: P11 W6 D2 L3 | AFCON: P5 W4 D1 L0