AFCON 2025: Chelle warns Super Eagles of toughest test against Morocco

AFCON 2025: Chelle warns Super Eagles of toughest test against Morocco

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has warned his players to be wary of hosts Morocco ahead of Wednesday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final showdown, describing the Atlas Lions as Nigeria’s toughest test of the tournament so far.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, the Malian tactician, who has guided Nigeria to an impressive run at the AFCON 2025, stressed that the Super Eagles will approach the encounter with maximum seriousness.

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“Each match that passes is a bigger test than the one before,” Chelle said. “We will play tomorrow’s game as if it is the last.”

While expressing confidence in his squad’s readiness, Chelle noted that he is open to adapting his tactics, including adopting a more defensive approach if required, to secure a place in the final.

Morocco head coach Walid Regragui also addressed the media, admitting the challenge ahead but highlighting the significance of reaching the advanced stage of the competition.

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“Tomorrow won’t be easy at all,” Regragui said. “But reaching the semi-finals shows that Morocco have maintained a high level, especially against a strong team like Nigeria.”

Nigeria arrived at the semi-final as the tournament’s top scorers with 14 goals, with Victor Osimhen netting four and Ademola Lookman contributing three as the Super Eagles powered into the last four.

The clash will mark the first meeting between Nigeria and Morocco in 22 years, the sixth time they have faced each other at AFCON, and only their second semi-final encounter in the competition’s history.

Wednesday’s match will kick off at 9:00 p.m. local time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

Morocco are hoping to reach the final for the first time since 2004, adding to the pressure on the hosts.

Nigeria booked their semi-final place with a solid 2–0 victory over Algeria in Marrakech, while Morocco advanced after defeating Cameroon by the same scoreline.

Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.

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