Nigeria and Morocco Clash in High-Stakes AFCON Semi-Final

- by Olatunji Johnson

With a historic final in sight, the Super Eagles face a stern test against the Atlas Lions, but must overcome the loss of their captain.

A titanic Africa Cup of Nations semi-final awaits as an unbeaten Nigeria squares off against Morocco this Wednesday, with both nations dreaming of a place in the final.

The Super Eagles, under coach Eric Chelle, have been in flawless form, winning all five of their matches and making history by scoring at least two goals in every game. They are now keen to secure a ninth final appearance in the tournament’s history. Standing in their way are the Atlas Lions, who roared into the last four with a convincing 2-0 quarter-final victory over Cameroon.

Nigeria’s charge, however, has suffered a significant blow. Influential captain Wilfred Ndidi is suspended due to accumulated yellow cards, leaving a major void in midfield for the Eagles to fill.

This match renews a classic African rivalry after a 22-year absence, marking the first meeting between the sides since 2002. It is only their second-ever semi-final clash at AFCON; Nigeria won the first encounter 1-0 back in 1980.

The winner will advance to the final to face either Egypt or Senegal, inching closer to continental glory.

Match Details:

  • Kick-off: Wednesday, January 14th, 21:00 (West African Time)
  • TV Channels: SuperSport, AfroSport, NTA, beIN Sports
  • Referee: Daniel Nii Laryea (Ghana)

Nigeria’s Possible XI: Nwabali; Osayi-Samuel, Ajayi, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Onyeka, Onyedika, Iwobi; Lookman, Osimhen, Adams.

Morocco’s Possible XI: Bono; Hakimi, Aguerd, Saïss, Mazraoui; El Aynaoui, Amrabat; Diaz, Saibari, Ezzalzouli; En-Nesyri.

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