Nigeria’s Super Eagles take on Morocco’s Atlas Lions on Wednesday in a crucial semi-final clash, with a place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations at stake.
Both nations are among Africa’s football powerhouses and boast some of the continent’s top talents, setting the stage for a fiercely contested encounter. Their journeys to this point have been convincing, with both sides dominating their earlier matches in the tournament.
Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has most of his key players available. However, Azzedine Ounahi, Romain Saïss and Hamza Igamane will miss the match due to injury.
Nigeria face a similar situation. Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle will be without captain Wilfred Ndidi, who is suspended after picking up too many yellow cards. Aside from that, the squad is largely intact.
Ahead of Wednesday night’s showdown, here is a likely starting line-up for Nigeria against Morocco.
Predicted Super Eagles XI vs Morocco
Goalkeeper
Stanley Nwabali is expected to keep his place between the posts. The Chippa United shot-stopper has had little to do in most matches so far, but he is likely to be tested much more against Morocco.
Defence
Chelle is unlikely to change his defensive unit, with all regular starters fit. Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi should continue as the central defensive pairing.
Bruno Onyemaechi is set to start at left-back, while Bright Osayi-Samuel will operate from right-back. The Super Eagles have kept clean sheets in the knockout stages and will aim to extend that run.
They will, however, need to be at their very best to contain Morocco’s attacking threats, including Brahim Díaz, Ayoub El Kaabi and Abde Ezzalzouli.
Midfield
Ndidi’s suspension means a small reshuffle in midfield. Raphael Onyedika is likely to step in as the holding midfielder, supported by Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka.
The trio will face a tough test, as Morocco are known for their fast-paced, aggressive style and will try to press Nigeria from the opening minutes.
Attack
The attacking unit is expected to stay the same. Victor Osimhen will lead the line alongside Akor Adams.
Ademola Lookman is likely to play just behind them, drifting wide to the left at times to add width and creativity. Nigeria’s attack has been the most dangerous at the tournament so far, and they will be hoping to keep their scoring form going on Wednesday night.
