The Atlas Lions are set for a high-stakes clash against Nigeria in Wednesday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final, with coach Walid Regragui insisting his team is fully prepared.
Speaking ahead of Morocco’s final training session at the Mohammed VI Football Center in Maâmoura, Regragui said, “The Moroccan national team is ready for this big match. We aim to be mentally present in the game and give everything we have.”
Defender Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal emphasized that the team has carefully studied the Super Eagles’ strengths and weaknesses, with unity and focus central to their ambitions.
“The Africa Cup of Nations is a tough tournament, and we must remain united at this stage. We are on the right path to achieve our goal,” he said, highlighting Morocco’s determination to reach the final and lift the trophy.
Real Betis winger Abdel Ezzalzouli also acknowledged the challenge ahead, stressing that maintaining full concentration will be crucial.
“We have prepared well for this match, and we are aiming for victory,” he said, reflecting the squad’s confidence and readiness.
This semi-final marks the sixth meeting between Morocco and Nigeria in AFCON history, and their first encounter in the tournament in 22 years.
It is only the second time the sides meet at this stage, with Nigeria winning the previous semi-final clash 1–0 in 1980. Their first-ever AFCON meeting came during the 1976 group stage.
Meanwhile, Senegal and Egypt will face off in the other semi-final on Wednesday at 5:00 p.m. GMT in Tangier, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion to AFCON 2025.
