Nigeria’s Super Eagles face a crucial test at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as they take on hosts Morocco in Wednesday’s semi-final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. Head coach Éric Chelle has called on his players to dig deep and give their best against an unbeaten Moroccan side.
The three-time African champions have impressed in the tournament, recording victories over Tunisia (3-2) and Algeria (2-0). Despite five wins in five matches, Chelle remains cautious.
“We have to work hard to win this on Wednesday,” Chelle told reporters. “Traveling between cities within three days is demanding, but as professionals, we must stay mentally ready and give our best. No excuses.”
While Algeria posed a tough challenge, Chelle described Morocco as an even bigger test, pointing to their unbeaten run, home support, and the experienced squad that reached the 2022 World Cup semi-finals.
The coach hinted Nigeria may take a cautious approach, allowing Morocco to control possession while looking to exploit counter-attacking opportunities.
The Super Eagles will miss captain Wilfred Ndidi, suspended after his second yellow card of the knockout stage. Chelle, however, is confident in the squad’s depth, naming Raphael Onyedika as Ndidi’s likely replacement. The Club Brugge midfielder has already contributed two goals in the tournament and is expected to step up in the crucial game.
Chelle concluded: “Every match is the biggest test for this team because expectations are high. We are ready to give everything, as we have done throughout the tournament.”