Former South Africa international Stanton Fredericks has backed Morocco to clinch the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title following their dramatic semifinal victory over Nigeria.
The Atlas Lions booked their place in the final after edging the Super Eagles 4–2 on penalties on Wednesday, having been held to a goalless draw after 90 minutes and extra time.
Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi were the unfortunate players to miss from the spot for Nigeria.
Nigeria will now turn their attention to the third-place playoff against Egypt on Saturday, a match head coach Eric Chelle has downplayed in terms of competitive significance.
Morocco’s victory set up a mouth-watering final against reigning champions Senegal, who reached the decider after a narrow 1–0 win over Egypt. Former Liverpool forward Sadio Mané scored the decisive goal to send the Teranga Lions through.
Speaking while on punditry duty with SuperSport, Fredericks pointed to Morocco’s home advantage as a decisive factor in the final.
“They never sat back, they never stopped defending and attacking. They defeated the Super Eagles because they have everything by their side, the home crowd,” he said.
“I think in this final, the home side will have the advantages and I think they’ll lift the trophy against Senegal. In as much as my heart says Senegal, my football brain says Morocco cannot lose against Senegal,” Fredericks added.
