Nigeria defender Bright Osayi-Samuel has expressed his displeasure about officiating following semi-final defeat to Morocco at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nation.
The West African football heavyweight succumbed to a penalty shootouts defeat to the Atlas Lions on Wednesday at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium following a pulsating goalless draw in both regular and extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium on Wednesday night.
Morocco has now set up a fierce final clash against Senegal, who narrowly defeated Egypt. The high-staked clash has been scheduled for Sunday, January 18, 2026, with victory crucial to securing the title.
This marks Morocco’s first AFCON final qualification since 2004, and their third time in its history after 1988, while Nigeria becomes the team with most semi-final defeat (9).
Speaking after the game, the enterprising defender expressed his displeasure with the performance of Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Laryea.
“We are very disappointed after the loss. I think we played very well and the defense was great.”
“The refereeing was unfortunate, and I’m not saying that because we lost, but the referee made many mistakes, and it’s frustrating to continue seeing such people in big matches like this. I wish the best for the Moroccan national team in the future.”
Nigeria will now battle it out with Egypt in the third place clash scheduled for Saturday, January 17, 2026.
