AFCON 2025 PREVIEW: FIVE MOROCCAN THREATS THE SUPER EAGLES NEED TO CONTAIN

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By: Fasasi Hammad

Nigeria will face host nation Morocco in the semi-final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with both teams vying for a place in the final of Africa’s premier football tournament.

The Super Eagles have been imperious so far, maintaining a perfect record in the competition. Nigeria have scored 14 goals, kept two clean sheets, and emerged as the tournament’s most potent attacking force.

Morocco, by contrast, have anchored their campaign on defensive discipline. Walid Regragui’s side have conceded just once — a penalty in their 1-1 group-stage draw against Mali — and have recorded four clean sheets while playing on home soil.

As the two heavyweights prepare for their last-four showdown, here are five Moroccan players Nigeria must watch closely.

Brahim Díaz

The Real Madrid winger has been one of AFCON 2025’s standout performers. Díaz is currently the tournament’s top scorer with five goals, having found the net in every match he has featured in.

He earned a place in the Group Stage Team of the Tournament and has sustained his form with goals in both the round of 16 and quarter-final. Blessed with pace, close control and creativity, Díaz’s dribbling and finishing ability make him a major threat to Nigeria’s defence.

Achraf Hakimi

Paris Saint-Germain full-back Achraf Hakimi adds experience, leadership and elite pedigree to Morocco’s side. The reigning African Player of the Year enjoyed a trophy-laden season with PSG, winning the Ligue 1, Coupe de France, UEFA Champions League, Super Cup and FIFA Intercontinental Cup.

Although he entered the tournament carrying an injury, Hakimi returned in the final group match and later provided an assist against Tanzania in the round of 16. His pace, overlapping runs and delivery from wide areas could trouble the Super Eagles.

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Noussair Mazraoui

Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui has once again underlined his status as one of Africa’s finest full-backs. Operating mainly on the right, Mazraoui blends defensive solidity with technical quality and composure in possession.

Named in the AFCON Group Stage Best XI, he has been key to Morocco’s build-up play from the back, while his willingness to support attacks adds another dimension to their game.

Yassine Bounou

At 34, Al-Hilal goalkeeper Yassine Bounou remains one of the most dependable shot-stoppers on the continent. Widely regarded as Africa’s best goalkeeper, he has kept four clean sheets in five AFCON appearances.

The only goal he has conceded came from the penalty spot against Mali. With his experience, reflexes and positioning, Nigeria will need to be ruthless in front of goal.

Ayoub El Kaabi

Ayoub El Kaabi has emerged as one of Morocco’s surprise stars at AFCON 2025. The 32-year-old Olympiakos striker has scored three goals, including two spectacular overhead kicks that have earned him the nickname “El-Kaabicycle”.

His movement, aerial prowess and flair for the spectacular, combined with Brahim Díaz’s threat, will present a stern test for Nigeria’s defence.