Manny Ita
The Super Eagles of Nigeria have arrived in Fez to begin preparations for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final against host nation Morocco, following a 2–0 victory over Algeria in the quarter-finals. The match is scheduled for Wednesday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Victor Osimhen, who scored Nigeria’s opening goal against Algeria, said the team expects a difficult contest against the hosts but remains focused on reaching the final. “It is not going to be an easy walk for us, but I believe in this squad, and I believe in the players,” the Napoli forward said after being named Man of the Match. “We will continue to build on this momentum, and hopefully, we’ll get to the final and win it.”
Nigeria’s second goal against Algeria was scored by Sevilla forward Akor Adams in the 57th minute after an assist from Osimhen. Although Adams missed other chances during the match, including a header that struck the woodwork, his overall performance has strengthened his chances of starting in the semi-final. Head coach Eric Chelle said the partnership between Osimhen and Adams was improving, adding that the team’s attack was “starting to click” as the tournament progresses.
The Super Eagles have now scored 14 goals in the competition, the highest tally so far, and remain unbeaten after five matches. Defensively, Nigeria has also impressed, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali keeping a clean sheet against an Algeria side that included Riyad Mahrez and Rayan Aït-Nouri.
Wednesday’s fixture marks the first Africa Cup of Nations meeting between Nigeria and Morocco in 22 years. Their last encounter came during the group stage of the 2004 tournament, when Morocco secured a 1–0 victory. While Morocco will enjoy home support in Rabat, Nigeria enter the match as one of the tournament’s most consistent teams.
The semi-final is set for January 14, 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 9:00 pm Nigerian time. The winner will advance to the final on January 18.
As preparations continue at the Saardienne Football Complex, incentives have been announced to motivate the Nigerian squad. In addition to a $500,000 bonus pledged by the BUA Group, several state governments are reported to have promised further rewards if the team qualifies for the final. Osimhen said the players are undeterred by the occasion. “We are not intimidated by any opponent,” he said. “It is the same passion, the same determination. We will give everything we have to win.”
