The eyes of the continent turn to the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium this Wednesday as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations reaches a fever pitch. In what many are labeling a “final before the final,” the irrepressible Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to collide with the host nation, Morocco, for a coveted spot in the AFCON showpiece.
The stakes could not be higher. This semi-final serves as a high-octane crossroads for African football’s elite, featuring a galaxy of stars including reigning CAF Player of the Year Victor Osimhen, the clinical Ademola Lookman, and Morocco’s homegrown icon, Achraf Hakimi.
Nigeria’s tactical blueprint faces a significant eleventh-hour adjustment. The Super Eagles will be forced to navigate this heavyweight encounter without the stabilizing presence of captain Wilfred Ndidi, who sits out due to a yellow card suspension.
In his stead, the spotlight falls on Raphael Onyedika. Having earned plaudits for his composed cameos earlier in the tournament, Onyedika now inherits the daunting task of anchoring the midfield against a relentless Moroccan press.
Wilfred Ndidi: Unavailable (Suspension)
Cyriel Dessers: Withdrawn (Thigh injury)
Bright Osayi-Samuel: Doubtful (Fitness test pending)
Calvin Bassey: Confirmed to lead the defensive line alongside the creative Alex Iwobi.
The Chelle Revolution: A Flawless Crusade
Under the astute stewardship of Malian tactician Eric Chelle, Nigeria has transformed into a juggernaut. The Super Eagles arrive in the semi-finals boasting a 100% win record, characterized by a brand of “vibrant attacking football” that has left opponents breathless.
Their journey to Rabat has been nothing short of a masterclass in offensive efficiency, racking up 14 goals while conceding a mere four.
Tanzania Group Stage 2–1 (W) A gritty opening statement
Tunisia Group Stage 3–2 (W) A high-octane tactical thriller
Uganda Group Stage 3–1 (W) Showcasing immense squad depth
Mozambique Round of 16 4–0 (W) A ruthless attacking clinic
Algeria Quarter-final 2–0 (W) Discarding a pre-tournament favorite
While the absence of Ndidi and Dessers thins the Nigerian ranks, the “unstoppable” momentum generated by Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman remains the Super Eagles’ greatest asset. Supported by the versatile Akor Adams and the vision of Iwobi, Nigeria possesses an unpredictable frontline capable of breaching Morocco’s disciplined backline.
However, playing in the cauldron of Rabat against the Atlas Lions represents the ultimate litmus test for Chelle’s men. It is a clash of Morocco’s structural discipline against Nigeria’s flair and forward momentum. On Wednesday night, only one titan will remain standing.
