Head coach of Morocco Walid Regragui has admitted his outfit struggled against Nigeria despite securing victory in the blockbuster semi-final clash on Wednesday at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Atlas Lions triumphed over the Super Eagles on penalties 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.
Speaking after the match, Regragui admitted his outfit struggled against the Super Eagles despite triumphing over them.
“We suffered against the strong Nigerian team, but the players were men, and we achieved our goal of qualifying for the final, even if it was through penalty kicks.”
“The Moroccan public deserves this historic qualification. They were there and supported us until the end, and we will try to recover our energy and focus on facing Senegal,” he stressed.
Morocco and Senegal have won the continental showpiece just once in their football history and will be seeking for their second triumph in the high-stake final on Sunday.
