Morocco booked their place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after overcoming Nigeria on penalties on Wednesday, setting up a landmark occasion for the host nation under intense scrutiny.
The Atlas Lions secured qualification at a packed Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, where they held Nigeria to a goalless draw before winning the shootout.
The result sends Morocco into an AFCON final for the first time in 22 years and revives memories of their only continental triumph, achieved half a century ago.
Nigeria entered the semi-final with strong ambitions of reaching a second successive final.
Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and their attacking partners pushed relentlessly, but Morocco resisted with structure and discipline.
Walid Regragui’s tactical plan limited space, controlled tempo, and neutralised Nigeria’s threats across 120 minutes.
Despite the achievement, Regragui has faced sustained criticism throughout the tournament. Sections of the public and media questioned his position, even as the competition progressed.
The pressure followed him into the semi-final, where the atmosphere around his role remained tense despite Morocco’s continued success.
Speaking in the mixed zone after the match, Regragui addressed the criticism directly.
He stressed that the team understood the expectations that come with representing Morocco and accepted the intensity of public reaction.
“We are happy because we know this public deserves to see another Africa Cup of Nations final and a team that wins,” Regragui said.
“Criticism belongs to football, and we accept it. For Morocco, even a draw or a single defeat becomes a disaster.
I wasn’t just heckled. People ran an unfair campaign. We accepted that and moved forward.”
Regragui highlighted the unity inside the squad as a decisive factor. He explained that the players responded on the pitch and shielded the coaching staff through performances rather than words.
“As I told them, they had to repay me on the pitch,” he added. “The group protected me. They love their coach.”
Morocco now prepares for a final charged with history, emotion, and expectation.
With home support behind them and confidence growing, the Atlas Lions stand one match away from a second African crown.
For Regragui, the journey already carries personal meaning, shaped by pressure, resilience, and collective belief.
