Morocco, Senegal set up AFCON final as refereeing row engulfs Nigeria exit

Hosts Morocco edged Nigeria 4–2 on penalties after a goalless draw, while Senegal beat Egypt 1–0 to book an all-heavyweight AFCON 2026 final.

Morocco sealed their place in the final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat after prevailing in a tense penalty shootout against Nigeria following 120 minutes without a goal.

The hosts kept their composure from the spot to end Nigeria’s campaign and move within one win of ending a 50-year Africa Cup of Nations title drought.

The semi-final, however, was overshadowed by sharp criticism of the officiating from the Nigerian camp. Defender Bright Osayi-Samuel was blunt in his assessment, saying, “The refereeing was terrible. It’s a great shame that there are still such referees today.” Striker Akor Adams, speaking to journalists in the mixed zone, added pointedly, “You should go interview the referee.”

The controversy echoed earlier criticism in the tournament, with French pundit Grégory Schneider remarking after a previous round, “What would be good is if we saved a bit of time and just handed the trophy directly to Morocco.”

In Tangier, Senegal booked their final ticket with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over seven-time champions Egypt.

Two-time African Footballer of the Year Sadio Mané struck the decisive blow in the 78th minute, firing low into the bottom left corner from outside the area after Lamine Camara’s initial effort was blocked.

The goal sparked celebrations among Teranga Lions supporters and sent Senegal into their second AFCON final in four editions. Mané later paid tribute to Mohamed Salah and Egypt, acknowledging the fierce contest between two familiar rivals.

Senegal’s progress came at a cost. Captain Kalidou Koulibaly will miss the final after picking up a suspension-inducing yellow card before being forced off with injury in the 23rd minute. Habib Diarra is also ruled out after being booked for dissent, compounding selection headaches for coach Pape Thiaw.

Despite those setbacks, Mané struck a confident tone ahead of the showdown. “After beating Egypt, we prayed we don’t face Nigeria because we have huge respect for them,” he said. “Against Morocco, it won’t be easy, but we would get the job done for our people. It’s my last AFCON, so we are going to fight for it.”

Morocco, reigning champions of CHAN, the FIFA Arab Cup and the FIFA U-20 World Cup, now stand one match away from continental glory against a Senegal side chasing another landmark triumph.