By Ozumi Abdul
Morocco have reached the Africa Cup of Nations final after beating Nigeria 4-2 on penalties following a 0-0 draw at the end of extra time in Wednesday’s semi-final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was the hero for Morocco, saving penalties from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi. Youssef En-Nesyri then converted the winning kick, sparking wild celebrations.
Morocco’s only miss came from Hamza Igamane, while captain Achraf Hakimi and other teammates successfully scored.
Nigeria’s hopes ended in a heartbreaking fashion, continuing a frustrating run after losing the final to hosts Ivory Coast two years ago.
Morocco will face Senegal in Sunday’s final after the Lions of Teranga defeated Egypt 1-0 in the other semi-final, thanks to a Sadio Mane goal.
The final will pit Africa’s top two FIFA-ranked sides against each other in a highly anticipated clash.
Under coach Walid Regragui, Morocco has been chasing its first AFCON title in 50 years, and the team now looks poised to achieve that dream with home support behind them.