RABAT: Yassine Bounou emerged as Morocco’s hero after saving two penalties to guide the hosts to a dramatic 4-2 shootout victory over Nigeria following a goalless draw in their Africa Cup of Nations semi-final in Rabat on Wednesday.
After 120 tense minutes produced few clear-cut chances, it was Youssef En-Nesyri who sealed Morocco’s place in the final by converting the decisive spot kick. Bounou then took centre stage, denying Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi as Nigeria’s campaign ended in disappointment.
Morocco enjoyed the better of the limited opportunities during the match, only to be frustrated by a series of fine saves from Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
Despite arriving with the tournament’s best scoring record, Nigeria struggled to impose themselves in attack and lacked ambition in a subdued performance.Consistent and disciplined throughout the competition, Morocco once again proved efficient rather than spectacular.
They now stand one win away from a first continental title since 1976.The Atlas Lions will face defending champions Senegal in Sunday’s final in Rabat after Sadio Mane’s goal earned Senegal a 1-0 win over Egypt in the other semi-final. Nigeria will meet Egypt in the third-place playoff a day earlier.
