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By Seyi Babalola
Morocco defeated Nigeria 4-2 on penalties to get to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final after their semi-final match ended 0-0 after extra time on Wednesday.
Morocco will face Senegal in Sunday’s final after defeating Egypt 1-0 in the other semi-final, thanks to a Sadio Mane goal.
The 120 minutes before the shootout had few clear-cut chances for either side, but it was Morocco who created the greater opportunities, though they were denied by some fine saves from Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
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Extra time saw Nigeria make attacking substitutions, including the introduction of Paul Onuachu and Samuel Chukwueze, while Morocco refreshed their lineup with Youssef En Nesyri and Eliesse Ben Seghir.
Both sides pressed for the winning goal, but neither could break the deadlock, setting up a tense penalty shootout.
In the shootout, Morocco edged Nigeria. The Super Eagles’ Bruno Onyemaechi and Samuel Chukwueze were denied by Bono, while Neil El Aynaoui converted the decisive penalty for Morocco.
Eric Chelle’s team will now focus on the third-place play-off, where they will face Egypt on Saturday, as they aim to finish the tournament on a positive note.
