A Battle Well Fought’ — Peter Obi Reacts As Super Eagles Crash Out Against Morocco

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has applauded the courage and determination displayed by the Super Eagles despite their defeat to Morocco in the semi-final of the AFCON 2025 tournament.

In a message shared on his account, Obi said the Nigerian team stood strong in the face of adversity and battled relentlessly until the final whistle.

He praised the players for maintaining their composure and dignity despite the loss, while reminding them that the opportunity to secure a third-place finish in the competition still remains.

“Dear gallant Super Eagles, it was a battle well fought and your heads were never bowed.

“Thank you for an inspiring 120 minutes of outstanding football. You demonstrated strength, skill and resilience against all odds.

“The journey is not over yet. You have made the nation proud. Keep your heads high — the Eagle never stops soaring.

“There is still another stage ahead; let’s go for that medal.

“You have done well,” Obi wrote.

Morocco progressed to the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after edging Nigeria 4–2 on penalties following a goalless draw that extended into extra time.

The semi-final encounter, officiated by Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Ayi Laryea, was a tense contest marked by discipline, patience and solid defending from both teams, as neither side could find a breakthrough in 120 minutes of play.

Nigeria enjoyed spells of possession, led by the attacking efforts of Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, but struggled to penetrate Morocco’s well-organised defence.

The Atlas Lions, under the leadership of captain Achraf Hakimi, appeared more threatening in open play. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali produced several key saves to deny Noussair Mazraoui and Abde Ezzalzouli, while Morocco’s goalkeeper Bono stayed alert to stop Lookman’s first-half attempt.

Extra time followed a similar pattern, with both teams making substitutions in search of fresh energy. Osimhen was eventually replaced by Paul Onuachu, but clear-cut chances remained limited as fatigue set in.

The match was ultimately decided in the penalty shootout. Morocco scored through Nabil El Aynaoui, Eliesse Ben Seghir, Achraf Hakimi and Youssef En Nesyri. Nigeria converted via Onuachu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, but missed penalties from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi proved costly.

Hakimi’s composed strike and En Nesyri’s successful kick sealed Morocco’s victory, ending Nigeria’s AFCON campaign in heartbreaking fashion after a fiercely contested encounter.

Morocco will face Senegal in the AFCON 2025 final on Sunday, January 18, at 8 p.m., while the Super Eagles will take on Egypt in the third-place match on Saturday, January 17, at 5 p.m.