The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Super Eagles

  • FULL LIST: What to know ahead of Super Eagles Clash against Morocco

    FULL LIST: What to know ahead of Super Eagles Clash against Morocco

    Nigeria’s quest for a fourth TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations title continues with a high-stakes semi-final clash against host nation Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Wednesday, 14 January. Kick-off is scheduled for 9pm local time.

    Nigeria head into the semi-final in perfect form, having won all five of their matches at the tournament, while hosts Morocco remain unbeaten with four wins and a draw.

    The clash will be the sixth Africa Cup of Nations meeting between the two sides, with each of the previous five encounters producing a decisive outcome. It is their first AFCON meeting in 22 years and only the second time they will face each other at the semi-final stage.

    Most of their previous AFCON meetings came in the group phase, with two matches in 1976, followed by encounters in 2000 and 2004. Morocco claimed victory in both meetings in 1976, while Nigeria recorded wins in 1980 and 2000. Their most recent AFCON clash was in 2004, when Morocco edged Nigeria 1-0 in the group stage.

    Nigeria’s only previous semi-final meeting with Morocco came in 1980, when a ninth-minute goal from Felix Owolabi secured a 1-0 win that paved the way for the Super Eagles’ first AFCON title.

    The Super Eagles have also had mixed fortunes against host nations at AFCON, posting three wins, three draws and four defeats in ten matches. This is the second consecutive tournament in which Nigeria are facing the host nation, following their encounters with Côte d’Ivoire at AFCON 2023.

    In knockout matches against hosts, Nigeria have recorded just one win in five attempts, with defeats in open play and on penalties highlighting the challenge they face. This semi-final marks Nigeria’s third direct knockout clash with a host nation, adding another layer of intrigue to the high-stakes encounter.

    Below is a clear, structured breakdown of all the key facts, historical meetings and tournament statistics ahead of the encounter, as outlined in CAF’s official release.

    Match Overview

    Fixture: Nigeria vs Morocco

    Stage: Semi-final

    Venue: Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat

    Date: Tuesday, 14 January

    Kick-off: 9pm local time (20:00 GMT)

    Tournament Form

    Both teams are unbeaten at AFCON 2025

    Nigeria: 5 matches, 5 wins

    Morocco: 4 wins, 1 draw

    AFCON Head-to-Head

    Sixth AFCON meeting between Nigeria and Morocco

    All previous five AFCON meetings produced a winner

    First AFCON meeting between both sides in 22 years

    Second time both teams are meeting in an AFCON semi-final

    Previous AFCON Meetings

    1976 Group Stage:

    Morocco 3–1 Nigeria

    Morocco 2–1 Nigeria

    1980 Semi-final:

    Nigeria 1–0 Morocco (Felix Owolabi, 9’)

    2000 Group Stage:

    Nigeria 2–0 Morocco (Finidi George, Julius Aghahowa)

    2004 Group Stage:

    Morocco 1–0 Nigeria (Youssef Hadji)

    Read Also: Oliseh: Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 form is best in 20 years

    Overall Head-to-Head Record

    Total meetings: 11

    Nigeria: 3 wins

    Morocco: 6 wins

    Draws: 2 (both 0-0, AFCON 1984 qualifiers)

    Nigeria vs Host Nations at AFCON

    Matches played: 10

    Wins: 3

    Draws: 3

    Losses: 4

    Wins over hosts:

    Senegal (1992 group stage)

    Mali (2002 third-place match)

    Côte d’Ivoire (2023 group stage)

    Losses to hosts:

    Algeria (1990 group stage and final)

    Ghana (2008 quarter-finals)

    Côte d’Ivoire (2023 final)

    Nigeria in Knockout Matches vs Hosts

    Matches: 5

    Wins: 1

    Losses: 4

    Penalty defeat: Tunisia (2004 semi-finals)

    This semi-final is Nigeria’s third direct knockout match against a host nation.

    Nigeria – Key Statistics

    Defeated Algeria 2-0 in the quarter-finals

    Scored at least two goals in all five matches

    14 goals scored, their highest tally at a single AFCON

     First team since Cameroon in 2021 to reach 14 goals

    Scored in their last 12 AFCON matches

    Won five consecutive AFCON matches for the first time

    Record-extending 16th AFCON semi-final appearance

    Semi-final record: P15 W8 L7

    A win would send Nigeria into a ninth AFCON final

    Victor Osimhen:

    4 goals at AFCON 2025

    Directly involved in 10 AFCON goals (5 goals, 5 assists)

    Nigeria unbeaten in matches where he scores or assists

    3 knockout goals at the current edition

    Morocco – Key Statistics

    Beat Cameroon 1-0 in the quarter-finals

    Reached the AFCON semi-finals for the fifth time

     First semi-final appearance since 2004

    Second time reaching the semi-finals as hosts

    Only one semi-final win in previous appearances

    All previous semi-finals decided in open play

    Four clean sheets at AFCON 2025, their most ever

    Key players:

    Yassine Bounou: first Moroccan goalkeeper with four AFCON clean sheets

    Brahim Díaz: 5 goals, one short of Ahmed Faras’ AFCON scoring record

    Morocco have scored five set-piece goals, the most at the tournament

    What’s at Stake

    Nigeria are chasing a fourth AFCON title and a first-ever run of consecutive finals

     Morocco are seeking a first AFCON final in over 21 years and their first title since 1976

    With Nigeria’s attacking firepower up against Morocco’s defensive discipline and home support, the Rabat semi-final promises a defining contest at AFCON 2025.

  • Chelle hints at tactical shift ahead of Super Eagles’ clash against Morocco

    Chelle hints at tactical shift ahead of Super Eagles’ clash against Morocco

    Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has suggested a possible change in Nigeria’s approach as his side prepares to face hosts Morocco in tomorrow’s highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations encounter.

    Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Chelle admitted his players are showing signs of fatigue after a demanding run in the tournament, prompting him to consider a more cautious game plan against the Atlas Lions.

    “I’ve noticed that my group is tired; it might be time for me to adjust my approach,” Chelle said. “We might perhaps leave the ball to Morocco and wait for them. We saw that they have difficulties when they play under pressure.”

    Read Also: Chelle stakes winning streak  against Atlas Lions

    The Franco-Malian tactician revealed that Nigeria could adopt a compact strategy early in the game before imposing themselves later on.

    “We’ll start that way, I think. We’ll hold on in the first half and try to play our game in the second half,” he added.

  • Oliseh: Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 form is best in 20 years

    Oliseh: Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 form is best in 20 years

    Super Eagles legend Sunday Oliseh has heaped praise on the Nigerian national team, declaring their recent performances at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 as the best he’s witnessed in 20 years.

    In a recent interview circulating on X, Oliseh, a former captain and coach, said he was particularly impressed with the team’s displays against Uganda, Mozambique, and Algeria, displaying their tactical dominance and ability to pressure opponents.

    He said, “I don’t know what’s going to happen in the next games. People were shouting the Tunisia game; for me, the Tunisia game was not really exceptional. The Tanzania game, for me, was not exceptional. I made my opinions clear. It’s no secret anymore.

    “But the way these Super Eagles have played the last three games is the best I have seen Super Eagles play in 20 years. In 20 years, since 2006,” he declared. “You can say Sunday said this”.

    Oliseh provided a breakdown of the tactical dominance displayed by the team under the current management.

    “Ask anybody what he saw as a football analyst to watch our team, and they will tell you Nigeria now forces the opposition to play defensive non-stop”, he added.

    Read Also: AFCON 2025:  Oliseh lauds Osimhen on captainship against Uganda

    He lauded the midfield trio of Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, and Alex Iwobi, saying they are “hitting everything up in the midfield” and that Iwobi is “running the show like an orchestra”.

    “Nigeria, they now put pressure on you from the defence, from the midfield, and Onyeka and Ndiidi are hitting everything up in the midfield. And look, Iwobi is just running the show like an orchestra,” he added, describing his enjoyment while watching.

    “Commentating on Nigeria is the most difficult thing to do because you want to give all the compliments, but at the same time you’re saying, oh, no, no, no, I have to be neutral”, he added.

    The Super Eagles face host Morocco in the semi-finals in Rabat, a match that promises to be a thrilling encounter between two footballing giants.

  • Super Eagles hold  first training  in Rabat for  Morocco

    Super Eagles hold  first training  in Rabat for  Morocco

    Controversial Mauritanian named for semi-final

    The Super Eagles yesterday relocated from their CAF base in Fez to Rabat and held a closed-door training session at the Mohammed VI Football Complex.

    The team had previously been based in Fez after moving from Marrakech following their 2-0 quarter-final victory over Algeria.

    The Super Eagles made Fes a base camp and played their first four games including the group games against Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda as well as the Round of 16 clash against Mozambique.

    They  will also hold their  last  and official training  for the match  at 6:15pm this evening at the  same venue.

    Meanwhile, controversial Mauritanian referee Dahane Beida has been appointed for  Wednesday night’s AFCON semifinal between the Super Eagles and hosts Morocco.

    Beida was poor when Morocco stopped Cameroon 2-0 to qualify for the semifinal of the tournament after making several calls in favour of the host nation.

    Read Also: Nigeria v. Gabon: NFF Protests FIFA official appointments for W’ Cup Play-off

    One of those calls was denying Cameroon a penalty in the 68th  minute, when Bryan Mbeumo was fouled inside the box.

    This was after he was not originally appointed for the game, which was to be handled by an Egyptian referee Amin Omar, who was rejected by the Morocco FA.

    The Mauritanian referee was roundly knocked for favouring Moroccan club RS Berkane to beat Simba of Tanzania in the Confederation Cup final.

    Interestingly, Beida was also the man in charge of the 2023 AFCON final in Abidjan, which the Super Eagles lost 2-1 to hosts Cote d’Ivoire.

    The appointment has raised concerns about potential bias in a match where Morocco, as hosts, already have home advantage.

  • Morocco 2025: ANFASSC solicits for  funds to sustain support for  Super Eagles

    Morocco 2025: ANFASSC solicits for  funds to sustain support for  Super Eagles

    The Authentic Nigeria Football and Allied Sports Supporters Club (ANFASSC) has  congratulated the Super Eagles for their outstanding performance and qualification into the semi-finals of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations.

    The team’s resilience, discipline, and fighting spirit continue to inspire millions of Nigerians at home and across the diaspora.

    As the Super Eagles prepare for a crucial semi-final encounter against host nation Morocco, ANFASSC has activated its full support structure to ensure sustained, organised, and spirited backing for the national team at this decisive stage of the tournament.

     This mobilisation includes logistics planning and supporter engagement aimed at maintaining a strong Nigerian presence within and around the stadium.

    In view of the heightened demands associated with a semi-final fixture, ANFASSC respectfully appeals to the Federal Government, relevant sports authorities, corporate institutions, and well-meaning Nigerians for financial and logistical support. Such support is critical to sustaining effective fan mobilisation, transportation, musical coordination, accommodation, and other operational requirements necessary for impactful matchday support.

    Read Also: Victor Osimhen not leaving AFCON camp — NFF official

    ANFASSC also calls for streamlined and accessible ticketing arrangements for Nigerian supporters, emphasising the importance of early release, fair distribution, and ease of access to match tickets.

    Enabling structured supporters’ groups to gain timely and coordinated entry into the stadium will enhance crowd organisation, safety, and the overall matchday atmosphere in favour of the Super Eagles.

    preparation for the semi-final, the club has intensified internal coordination, supporter orientation, and engagement with relevant stakeholders to ensure disciplined conduct, positive representation, and unity among Nigerian fans. ANFASSC remains committed to promoting cooperation among all supporters’ clubs and Nigerian fan groups, reinforcing a single, unified voice in support of the national team.

    As Nigeria stands on the brink of another historic AFCON final, ANFASSC reassures the Super Eagles of its unwavering presence and belief. The club urges all stakeholders to rally behind the team through collective support, strategic funding, and national unity, confident that together, Nigeria can overcome the challenge ahead and advance toward continental glory.

  • Pomp as Goldberg lifted Super Eagles into Semi-finals

    Pomp as Goldberg lifted Super Eagles into Semi-finals

    The roads leading to the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Social Development (PAKO Field), Awe Close, Dopemu, Lagos, are usually quiet.

    But on Saturday, they came alive long before kick-off as fans made their way to Goldberg’s Festival of Drums and Light, staged alongside the Super Eagles’ AFCON quarter-final clash against Algeria.

    The early build-up set the tone. Traffic thickened, music filled the air and supporters arrived in numbers, drawn by a match-day experience that promised more than football. From the entrance, it was clear Goldberg was in charge of the atmosphere.

    Inside the PAKO Field, the venue had taken on a carnival look, fully dressed in Goldberg’s signature gold colours.

    Branded zones dotted the grounds, from the photo booth to the dressing room and the popular Shoot for Gold stand, where fans tested their shooting accuracy and earned branded items.

    The setting signalled a night designed for shared moments. The programme opened on a note of national pride as Yinka Davies, supported by the Ayo Bankole Orchestra, delivered a stirring rendition of “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”. The anthem flowed into familiar supporters’ songs and popular tunes, easing fans into the evening and reinforcing the emotional bond between football and culture.

    As the countdown to kick-off continued, 100 drummers led by Kaakaki took over the space. Their deep, steady beats rolled through the venue, joined by the energetic display of the Dance Na the Main Thing group. Ball jugglers and freestyle performers added colour, keeping fans engaged as excitement built.

    Tolu Daniels anchored the experience as host, guiding the flow of activities and drawing fans closer together. His chant of “Up Super Eagles… Go for Gold” quickly spread through the crowd, echoing the belief that Nigeria’s journey at AFCON was far from over.

    Fan engagement remained central throughout. Predict and Win games delivered prizes and laughter, while DJ Flame’s early set sustained the relaxed but lively mood.

    A short screening of Nigeria’s famous AFCON 1994 3-0 victory over Gabon helped stir memories of past success and raised expectations ahead of the match.

    Read Also: Man United crash out of FA Cup after 2–1 loss to Brighton

    When the game began, the Super Eagles showed promise from the opening whistle, drawing steady encouragement from the stands. By half-time, with the score still level, Goldberg kept the energy alive. Hypeman Advantage and DJ Flame lifted spirits, ensuring belief did not fade.

    That belief proved timely. In the second half, Victor Osimhen broke the deadlock, triggering a wave of celebration across the PAKO Field. Adams Akor followed with Nigeria’s second goal, sealing a 2–0 win over Algeria and confirming the Super Eagles’ place in the AFCON semi-final.

    As the final whistle sounded, the Festival of Drums and Lights moved into full celebration mode. Zlatan Ibile took the stage with his hit song Overthinking, fire dancers lit up the night and DJ KhoDeD kept the crowd moving. Mavo’s grand entrance pushed the energy higher, before Segun Johnson closed the live performances. DJs then took over, playing hit after hit as fans danced late into the night, many with ice-cold Goldberg Lager Beer in hand.

    Speaking on the experience, Portfolio Manager, Mainstream Lager Brands, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Laolu Babalola, said the night reflected the essence of the brand’s Our Beat, Our Gold campaign.

     “This is how Nigerians experience football,” he said. “It’s not just about the match. It’s about the rhythm, the togetherness and the belief. Our Beat, Our Gold is about creating spaces where fans can feel that connection, especially at moments like this.”

    Also commenting, Senior Brand Manager, Goldberg, Kunle Aroyehun, described the festival as a celebration of shared identity.

    “Football has a special place in Nigeria,” he said. “What we saw here shows how culture and football come together to unite people, and how Goldberg continues to support those moments.”

    The Festival of Drums and Lights form part of Goldberg’s wider Our Beat, Our Gold campaign, which has followed the Super Eagles through AFCON 2025 with viewing centres and fan activations across Lagos and beyond.

    As one of the longest-standing sponsors of Nigerian football, the brand continues to place fans at the centre of the Super Eagles’ journey.

    With Nigeria now through to the semi-final and still chasing a fourth AFCON title, Goldberg says it will keep standing with the team and the fans, celebrating every step of the way.

    Drum performers entertaining the fans and consumers before the Super Eagles’ win against Algeria.

  • Super Eagles’ growing defensive solidity  excites  Ajayi

    Super Eagles’ growing defensive solidity  excites  Ajayi

    Nigeria defender Semi Ajayi has taken positives from the Super Eagles’ 2–0 victory over Algeria in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, played at the Grande Stade de Marrakech on Saturday.

    Ajayi once again proved his importance at the heart of Nigeria’s defence, delivering key interceptions and crucial blocks to help the Super Eagles secure another clean sheet in the tournament.

    Reflecting on the performance, the defensive marshal expressed confidence in the team’s steady improvement as attention turns to the semi-final clash against hosts Morocco.

    Read Also: Barcelona beat Real Madrid 3-2 with Raphinha’s late strike in Super Cup thriller

     “We’re not taking the game lightly. I feel like we’ve improved gradually with every small game,” Ajayi said. “We’ll be looking to take a massive step forward in the next game.”

    The West Bromwich Albion defender highlighted defensive solidity as a major source of pride for the team, noting that back-to-back clean sheets have boosted belief within the squad.

     “Yeah, the defence, that’s what we pride ourselves on. It’s not easy, so we’re glad to get two in a row now. There are still things we can be better on and be more dominant.”

    Ajayi added that victories like the one against Algeria send a strong message to opponents and reinforce the Super Eagles’ confidence as they approach the business end of the tournament.

     “It brings confidence. We know we’re okay for the world, but a win like this is a real statement. It brings us to the point where we have belief in ourselves,” he concluded.

  • Experienced administrator Toro tips  Eagles against Morocco

    Experienced administrator Toro tips  Eagles against Morocco

    Former Secretary-General of the Nigeria Football Association, Alhaji Sani Toro, has expressed strong confidence that the Super Eagles will defeat host nation Morocco and advance to the final of AFCON 2025.

    Toro spoke after Nigeria’s 2-0 quarter-final victory over Algeria, praising the quality, discipline, and fighting spirit of Eric Chelle’s side.

    Read Also: Barcelona beat Real Madrid 3-2 with Raphinha’s late strike in Super Cup thriller

     “The victory did not come to me as a surprise,” Toro said. “This team has quality and belief. I strongly believe they will come out victorious against Morocco.”

    While acknowledging the strength of the Atlas Lions, Toro insisted that Nigeria possesses superior quality and momentum, adding that the team is on course to lift the AFCON trophy for the fourth time.

     “The Super Eagles are unstoppable, and I look forward to seeing them in the final,” he concluded.

  • AFCON: Akpabio lauds Super Eagles on semi-finals qualification, charges team to bring home trophy

    AFCON: Akpabio lauds Super Eagles on semi-finals qualification, charges team to bring home trophy

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio, on Sunday, congratulated the Super Eagles, for qualifying for the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) holding in Morocco.

    Akpabio in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, described the Super Eagles as the pride of the nation.

    Read Also: Dollar rain for high-flying Super Eagles

    “I heartily congratulate the Super Eagles on their impressive 2-0 victory over Algeria, securing a well-deserved spot in the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations,” Akpabio said while reacting to the outcome of the match played Saturday in Marrakech.

    “I must say, you’re the pride of the nation. This achievement is a testament to the team’s unwavering dedication, resilience, and teamwork,” the Senate President told the high-flying Super Eagles.

    He urged the players to maintain their focus and momentum as they face hosts Morocco in the semi-finals on Wednesday, adding: “We are proud of you; the 10th Senate and all Nigerians are behind you, cheering you on to bring home the trophy.”

  • Dollar rain for high-flying Super Eagles

    Dollar rain for high-flying Super Eagles

    The Super Eagles are already cashing in big time on their superb run at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.

    Nigerian billionaire Abdul Samad Rabiu has promised the team half a million US dollars should they beat hosts Morocco to qualify for the final of the tournament.

    A goal in the semifinal will be rewarded by him to the tune of $50,000.

    Read Also: Mikel berates  NFF on Super Eagles’ preps for AFCON 2025

    He will pay the team a million dollars when they win a fourth AFCON crown in Morocco.

    A goal in the final will earn the team additional $100,000.

    Another businessman Ahmadu Saleh rewarded the Super Eagles with $30,000 for the two goals against Algeria tonight.

    SCORENigeria has already reported that each player was paid $15,000 cash for the Round of 16 victory over Mozambique with promises that they will soon receive $30,000-a-man for going past the group stage of the tournament.