Morocco faces stiff competition in Africa Cup of Nations 2025

Morocco to Host Semifinals of Africa Cup of Nations

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has reached its semifinal stage, with Morocco set to host a highly anticipated showdown against Nigeria on Wednesday. The tournament features several top-ranked African teams, including Egypt, Senegal, and Nigeria.

Mohamed Salah’s Egypt, Victor Osimhen’s Nigeria, and Sadio Mane’s Senegal are among the remaining contenders for the trophy. Morocco, ranked as Africa’s top team, will face off against Nigeria in the capital city, with home advantage giving them a slight edge.

Morocco has maintained an unbeaten record since losing to South Africa at the last AFCON, conceding just one goal in five matches. Their quarterfinal win over Cameroon was seen as a historic achievement, and coach Walid Regragui urged his team to continue their momentum.

Captain Achraf Hakimi is fit again after injury, and winger Brahim Diaz has been impressive, scoring five goals in five games. Regragui has dismissed suggestions that Morocco’s success is due to favorable refereeing decisions, stating that the team’s performance on the field is what matters.

Nigeria, led by coach Eric Chelle, have shown significant improvement since their failed World Cup qualifying campaign. The team is this tournament’s top scorers with 14 goals, and striker Victor Osimhen has found his form after going seven matches without scoring.

The semifinals will also feature Senegal against Egypt, with the winner advancing to the final. Morocco’s opponents in both semifinals have been impressive, but the hosts are expected to face a tough challenge in their bid for the title.

Source: Al Jazeera