Bounou Shines as Morocco Defeats Nigeria on Penalties to Reach AFCON Final Against Senegal

Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerged as Morocco’s undisputed hero on Wednesday night after producing two crucial saves in a dramatic penalty shootout that sent the hosts into the Africa Cup of Nations final. The tense semi-final showdown against Nigeria ended goalless after extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, setting the stage for a nail-biting finale from the spot.

Bounou denied Samuel Chukwueze and then pulled off a spectacular stop to thwart Bruno Onyemaechi, giving Morocco the edge they needed. His brilliance allowed Youssef En-Nesyri to step up and dispatch the decisive kick, triggering an eruption of celebration from the home crowd, who had endured a night of tension and anticipation.

There was, however, a moment of heartbreak for Hamza Igamane, who was visibly shaken after seeing his effort saved by Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. Despite his miss, he was the lone Moroccan player who failed to convert, as captain Achraf Hakimi and the rest of the Atlas Lions held their nerve to seal a 4-2 victory in the shootout.

With the win, Morocco advances to Sunday’s highly anticipated final, where they will face Senegal. The Lions of Teranga secured their place earlier in the day with a 1-0 victory over Egypt, courtesy of a well-taken goal from Sadio Mané. The final promises to be a heavyweight battle, bringing together Africa’s two highest-ranked national teams in what is expected to be a fitting climax to the tournament.

The pressure has been immense on Walid Regragui’s side, who are chasing Morocco’s first AFCON title in 50 years. Playing on home soil and backed by a passionate crowd, they will enter the final with confidence and momentum.

For Nigeria, the loss is a bitter one, marking another painful exit just two years after falling short in the final against hosts Ivory Coast. Their journey ends in heartbreak, while Morocco marches on with dreams of continental glory still very much alive.