Still Goalless After 98 Minutes: Nigeria vs Morocco in the AFCON Semi-Final

Still Goalless After 90 Minutes: Nigeria vs Morocco in the AFCON Semi-Final

After 90 intense minutes in this Africa Cup of Nations semi-final, Nigeria and Morocco remain deadlocked at 0–0 — and what an intriguing battle we’ve seen so far.

From the first whistle, both teams showed they came to compete. Morocco looked the brighter side in attack, registering significantly more attempts at goal and maintaining consistent pressure on Nigeria’s defence. Despite holding less of the ball overall, Nigeria defended with discipline and composure, frustrating Morocco’s offensive efforts and showing tremendous resilience when required.

Morocco ended the 90 minutes with 11 total shots, and although only three of these were on target, they reflected a side repeatedly probing Nigeria’s back line and searching for openings. The Super Eagles’ defence, marshalled well all afternoon, snuffed out danger time and again, and their goalkeeper came up big when called upon.

Nigeria’s offensive numbers might not leap off the page, with just two shots and only one on target, but those figures mask a team that worked tirelessly to stay compact, absorb pressure, and strike on the counter. Their possession slightly edged Morocco’s, showing that they weren’t content to simply sit in their box; Nigeria managed to keep the ball when it mattered and relieve pressure in key moments.

This match hasn’t been without intensity. Nigeria committed more fouls than their rivals, a sign of the physical battle taking place in midfield and across the pitch, while both teams remained disciplined enough to avoid any red cards.

Morocco also had more opportunities from set-pieces with a handful of corners, but the decisive delivery or finishing touch just didn’t arrive. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s attacks, though fewer, carried real threat when they broke forward.

As it stands after regulation time, neither side has been able to find the breakthrough, and the tension is building. Extra time now beckons, with memories of what’s at stake motivating both squads. For Nigeria, it’s the dream of reaching an AFCON final; for Morocco, it’s proving dominance on home soil.

Both teams will need to summon fresh energy and tactical sharpness over the next 30 minutes if they want to avoid the lottery of a penalty shootout. One thing is certain: the drama is far from over.