Super Eagles Head Coach Eric Chelle and star midfielder Alex Iwobi have voiced strong confidence in Nigeria's ability to overcome host nation Morocco in a high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations semifinal clash scheduled for today. The match, set for the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat, promises to be a thrilling encounter as both continental giants vie for a spot in the tournament final.
Historical Rivalry and Current Form
The upcoming duel marks the second time Nigeria will face Morocco at this iconic stadium. Their first meeting in Rabat dates back to 1983, during the final leg of the Cote d'Ivoire 1984 Nations Cup qualifier. On that occasion, the Green Eagles, led by the legendary late Stephen Keshi, triumphed 4-3 on penalties after a goalless regular time.
Morocco, however, claimed revenge a few months later in Casablanca, defeating Nigeria by the same 4-3 penalty scoreline in a qualifier for the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. The first leg in Lagos had also ended without a goal.
In the current tournament, Nigeria has earned the reputation of awaiting champions due to their impeccable performances, which have propelled them into a semifinal lineup featuring four of Africa's football powerhouses.
Chelle and Iwobi's Confident Stance
Ahead of the crucial match, Coach Eric Chelle addressed the media following the team's final training session at the Mohammed VI football complex in Rabat. He acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge but assured Nigerians of his team's readiness.
"Algeria was a big test... Morocco is a big test... every game is the biggest test for this team," Chelle stated. "Because the expectation is so big, we are ready and fully prepared for all of them." He emphasized that his tactical approach would be tailored based on the physical condition of his players, but the ultimate goal remains victory.
Midfield maestro Alex Iwobi attributed the team's outstanding run to the exceptional unity and chemistry within the squad. "I feel the difference is the sense of brotherhood, the family environment that we've created for each other," Iwobi explained.
He highlighted that the current squad, now entering its prime, benefits from strong club form and a deep bond that translates onto the pitch. "The coach has brought that brotherhood... you can see on the pitch that we're fighting for each other. He is bringing out the best, not just in me, but in all the players," Iwobi added.
Match Officials and Key Players
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Laryea to officiate the semifinal. Laryea recently served as the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) during Morocco's tense quarterfinal victory over Cameroon and earlier refereed the group-stage match between Algeria and Burkina Faso.
Iwobi finds himself among the Nigerian players in contention for the tournament's Most Valuable Player award, alongside Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Akor Adams.
The first semifinal between Egypt and Senegal will kick off at 4:00 p.m. Nigerian time, followed by the Super Eagles' clash with the Atlas Lions at 8:00 p.m. All eyes will be on Rabat as Nigeria seeks to move one step closer to a potential fourth AFCON title.
