Samuel Chukwueze’s penalty miss proved costly as Morocco edged out Nigeria 4-2 in a penalty shootout, securing their spot in the AFCON final against Senegal. The match which saw the hosts had 13 shots compared to Nigeria’s 2 ended 0-0 after extra time.
Stanley Nwabali then denied Hamza Igamane penalty making Morocco the first of both sides to miss a spot kick. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou will redeem the distraught Igamane by making two crucial saves, including one from Chukwueze who was subbed in final minutes of the extra time and another from Bruno Onyemaechi.
Youssef En-Nesyri scored the decisive penalty, sending Morocco to their first AFCON final since 2004. They are yet to win the continental championship for a whooping period of 50 years! their sole victory being 1976 tournament in Ethiopia.
Morocco’s victory sets up a thrilling final against Senegal, who defeated Egypt 1-0 in the other semifinal. The final match will take place on Sunday, January 18, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco. Nigeria, who were last editions finalists will now face for third place playoffs on Saturday, January 17 in Casablanca.
