Morocco's head coach, Walid Regragui, has extended words of respect to Nigeria's Super Eagles following a tense and dramatic Africa Cup of Nations semifinal clash that saw the Atlas Lions advance to the final. The match, held at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, ended 0-0 after extra time before Morocco secured a 4-2 victory in a penalty shootout.
Regragui Acknowledges Nigeria's Strength and Intensity
In his post-match remarks, Regragui did not hide his admiration for the Nigerian side, describing them as one of the most challenging opponents his team has faced in the tournament. He highlighted the Super Eagles' physicality and tactical discipline, which forced Morocco to dig deep for the win.
"We came up against a very solid team," Regragui stated, according to reports. "They are an athletic side, they ran a lot and made it very difficult for us." The Moroccan tactician emphasized that the match was a true battle, with fine margins deciding the outcome.
Defensive Masterclass Seals Morocco's Final Berth
The semifinal was characterized by a cagey midfield battle and few clear-cut chances, a testament to the defensive organization of both sides. Regragui pointed to his team's defensive philosophy, built over three years, as the cornerstone of their success.
"We've been talking about our defence for three years now," he explained. "We closed down the angles, the transitions, and stayed compact. It was tough, I won't lie." The hero of the shootout was goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, who made crucial saves from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi to send Morocco to their first AFCON final in 22 years.
Nigerian Perspective: Praise Amid Disappointment
Despite the heartbreaking exit, the Super Eagles' performance garnered praise from analysts back home. Nigerian football expert Toritseju Williams commended the team for withstanding significant pressure from both the Moroccan crowd and what was perceived as questionable officiating.
"The Super Eagles showed they are a team that can withstand any pressure," Williams noted. "We always knew the Moroccans would be difficult to defeat in front of their fans, but Eric Chelle's men held their stand, refused to be bullied despite the poor refereeing on the day."
The result ended Nigeria's quest for a fourth AFCON title, having won all five of their matches leading up to the semifinal.
Looking Ahead: Third-Place Playoff and Moroccan Ambition
For Nigeria, focus immediately shifts to the third-place playoff match against Egypt, scheduled for Saturday, January 17, 2026. It is an opportunity for the Super Eagles to end the tournament on a high note.
Meanwhile, Regragui spoke of Morocco's broader ambitions on the continent. Following their historic run to the 2022 World Cup semifinals, he stressed the importance of consistency in challenging for major honors.
"We need to change our DNA. We need to get used to playing in the semi-finals," Regragui said. "The more consistent we are, the more titles we can win." Morocco will now face Senegal in the AFCON 2025 final.
