Nigeria vs Morocco prediction 14.01.2026 | AFCON

Nigeria have been one of the most prolific - if not the most prolific - attacking teams at AFCON 2025, scoring at least two goals in each of their five matches - a feat achieved only once before by the Super Eagles and placing them among the tournament’s standout offensive units. Overall, they have found the net 14 times at this AFCON, their highest tally at a single AFCON finals, with contributions from stars such as Victor Osimhen, Akor Adams, Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi. 

Nigeria’s quarter-final win over Algeria was emphatic (2-0), with Osimhen opening the scoring immediately after halftime and Adams sealing the victory. Their recent form includes wins over Mozambique (4-0), Uganda (3-1) and Tunisia (3-2), highlighting their killing instinct in front of goal.

Defensively, Nigeria have conceded in several AFCON matches but kept a clean sheet at the most crucial time in both knockout games, suggesting improved organisation when it matters most. There are no major reported injury concerns, and head coach Eric Chelle appears to have a fully available squad ahead of the semi-final. Their tactical approach has combined physicality with pace in transition, giving them an edge against teams that sit deep.

Hosts Morocco have also impressed, progressing unbeaten through the group and knockout stages with four wins and a draw, although they cannot boast the same attacking fluidity as their semi-final opponents, Nigeria. The host nation have scored more than two goals in a single match only once - a 3-0 win over Zambia - but they have been unquestionably the best defensive unit in the tournament, conceding just one goal in five matches so far.

Their most recent quarter-final was a 2-0 victory over Cameroon, in which Brahim Díaz scored for a fifth consecutive game, equalling a tournament goalscoring run and setting a new Moroccan record. Importantly, Morocco have yet to concede a goal in open play at AFCON 2025, highlighting their defensive strength, with goalkeeper Yassine Bounou anchoring a compact backline.

Morocco’s attacking output includes five set-piece goals, the highest of any team in the tournament, reflecting both tactical preparation and execution during dead-ball situations. Díaz’s ongoing thigh concern from the Cameroon match could be an issue; however, coach Walid Regragui retains significant depth and flexibility.