The stage is now set for the final of the 35th Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, as hosts Morocco defeated Nigeria’s Super Eagles on penalties to book a highly anticipated showdown with 2021 champions Senegal.
The tense semi-final encounter ended goalless after regulation and extra time, before Morocco prevailed 4-2 in the penalty shootout, sparking mixed reactions among fans and pundits, not only because of the outcome but also due to what has been widely described as poor officiating.
Penalty Shootout Drama
Morocco goalkeeper, Yassine Bounou emerged as hero of the night, producing two crucial saves in the shootout. The Atlas Lions sealed victory when Youssef En-Nesyri confidently converted Morocco’s fifth penalty, sending the home crowd into wild celebrations and confirming their place in Sunday’s final.
Nigeria were briefly handed a lifeline when goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali saved Morocco’s second kick taken by Hamza Igamane, raising hopes of a Super Eagles comeback. However, substitute Chukwu Eze, introduced late in extra time, saw his effort stopped by Bounou, who also denied Bruno Onyemaechi, tilting the balance decisively in favour of the hosts.
Officiating Under the Spotlight
Despite the high quality of football on display, the match was overshadowed by controversial refereeing decisions by Ghanaian official, Daniel Nii Laryea, which have since drawn widespread criticism.
Several decisions during regulation and extra time, including contentious fouls, inconsistent bookings, and penalty appeals waved away, left the Nigerian bench and supporters visibly frustrated. Analysts and fans alike have described the officiating as below the standard expected at this stage of the competition, with debates raging across social media platforms shortly after the final whistle.
While no official protest has been lodged, the performance of the referee has remained a major talking point, adding to the drama of an already intense semi-final.
What Next
Nigeria will now turn their attention to Saturday’s third-place playoff against Egypt, as both sides seek to finish the tournament on a positive note.
Meanwhile, Morocco and Senegal will battle for continental supremacy in the final, with both teams chasing a second AFCON title, setting the stage for a thrilling climax to the tournament.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
