Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has commended Nigeria’s mental resilience despite their 4–2 penalty shoot-out defeat to hosts Morocco in the semi-final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025.
The highly anticipated clash ended goalless after regulation time and extra time, with both sides adopting a cautious and disciplined approach. Nigeria pressed aggressively to limit Morocco’s attacking influence, a tactical decision Chelle said was necessary.
Speaking after the tense encounter at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Chelle admitted the loss was painful but praised his players for their commitment and fighting spirit.
“The match was never easy, but the players showed strong mentality and fought for every ball,” Chelle said. “We pressed high because if you don’t press, you leave spaces and the situation becomes very complicated,” he explained.
“Technically, we were not at the level of our previous matches. I won’t blame fatigue, but we lacked movement and power.”
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Defensively, the Super Eagles were resolute, with Calvin Bassey delivering a strong performance at the back. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali also stood out, producing a superb one-handed save to deny Hamza Igmane during the shoot-out.
Ultimately, missed penalties by Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi proved costly as Morocco converted four spot-kicks to book their place in the final. Chelle urged his players to remain focused as Nigeria turns its attention to the third-place play-off.
“We worked hard throughout the tournament. This is football, and we must continue working,” he said.
Nigeria will face Egypt on Saturday in Casablanca in the battle for bronze. Egypt were edged out 1–0 by Senegal in the other semi-final, with Sadio Mane scoring the decisive goal in the 78th minute.