Nigeria vs Morocco prediction and odds ahead of AFCON clash

Nigeria, despite missing out on World Cup qualification, are 90 minutes away from an AFCON final but they have to get past an equally impressive Morocco side

Nigeria will take on host nation Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals on Wednesday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. This highly anticipated showdown will feature some of the continent’s brightest stars, including recent CAF Player of the Year winners Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Achraf Hakimi—all still in pursuit of African football’s top prize.

The Super Eagles have been one of the tournament’s standout teams, bouncing back strongly after missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a play-off loss to DR Congo last November. Under the guidance of Malian coach Eric Chelle, Nigeria have embraced the weight of expectation that comes with being three-time African champions, and fans across the country are optimistic that the “giant of Africa” can rise to the occasion.

Entering the group stage with cautious optimism, Nigeria have surpassed all predictions, playing vibrant, attacking football and maintaining a perfect record en route to the semi-finals. Their journey began with a win over Tanzania, followed by a thrilling five-goal victory against Tunisia to secure early qualification. A rotated squad then overcame Uganda 3-1 in their final group match, before the Super Eagles cruised past Mozambique 4-0 in the round of 16 and delivered an emphatic win over tournament favorites Algeria in the quarter-finals.

Nigeria currently boast the most prolific attack in the tournament, scoring 14 goals in five matches while conceding just four and keeping two clean sheets. The front three of Osimhen, Lookman, and Alex Iwobi—supported by Akor Adams—have led the charge, while Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali have provided a solid foundation and leadership.

Historically, Morocco have the upper hand in this fixture, with six wins to Nigeria’s four and one draw in 11 meetings since 1969. Although Nigeria have enjoyed notable triumphs in 1980 and 2000, Morocco have dominated recent encounters, winning five of the last six—including a 4-0 victory in their most recent meeting at the 2018 African Nations Championship.

Morocco, meanwhile, have justified their status as hosts. Walid Regragui’s side topped Group A with seven points, recording wins over Comoros and Zambia and drawing with Mali. The Atlas Lions have combined passionate home support with a disciplined defense and quick, incisive attacks. In the knockout stages, Morocco dispatched Cameroon 2-0, with Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz continuing his impressive scoring run. Diaz’s opener and Ismael Saibari’s goal sealed a composed performance, maintaining Morocco’s unbeaten record in open play and highlighting their ability to handle pressure.

This marks Morocco’s fifth appearance in an AFCON semi-final and their best run since 2004. The Atlas Lions have reached the final only once before—as hosts in 1988—and another victory would see them advance to their third senior CAF final in under a year. Diaz has become a key figure, making history as the first player in 15 years to score in each of his first five AFCON games, while Regragui’s tactical acumen has molded a team that expertly balances defensive solidity with attacking flair.

Nigeria vs MoroccoBetting Tips

• Nigeria to win and both teams to score - 6/1 (Betfred)
• Over 2.5 goals - 5/4 (Betfred)
• Viktor Osimhen to score anytime - 15/8 (Betfred)

18+ | Gamble responsibly | gambleaware.org | Odds subject to change

Gamble responsibly

Everyone at The Inside Track and Reach are committed to promoting safer gambling. All of our content and recommended bets are advised to those aged 18 or over. Odds are subject to change too.

We strongly encourage our readers to only ever bet what they can afford to lose. For more information, please call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or visit begambleaware.org.