On Wednesday, January 14, two of the tournament’s most formidable contenders, Nigeria and Morocco, will meet in Rabat for a highly anticipated semi-final clash.

Both teams have dominated their opponents on their path to the final four, but this match is expected to pose the toughest challenge for either side thus far.

Morocco will rely on 68,000 fans at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium as they face Nigeria, who come in as favourites with five wins from five matches and 14 goals scored, just two shy of the tournament record.

Nigeria’s success largely stems from forwards Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen, who have contributed significantly to the team’s goal tally. The Super Eagles aim for their ninth AFCON final but will be without captain Wilfred Ndidi due to suspension.

Morocco has reached the semi-finals by winning four of five matches, with coach Walid Regragui counting on Brahim Diaz, who has scored in five straight matches. Defensively, Morocco has been solid, conceding only one goal throughout the tournament and seeking their third final appearance, having won in 1976.

In their head-to-head, this will be the sixth AFCON clash, with Morocco leading the series 3-2. Key players include Lookman, who has been involved in seven goals this tournament, and Díaz, who could break a 58-year scoring record if he scores again.