The Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat will be the epicenter of African football tonight as hosts Morocco face Nigeria in a blockbuster 2026 Africa Cup of Nations semifinal.
For the “Atlas Lions,” this is more than just a game; it is a date with destiny. Morocco is looking to end a 50-year drought, having not lifted the AFCON trophy since 1976. Standing in their way is a powerhouse Nigeria side, the 2023 runners-up, who are desperate to secure their fourth continental title.
Match Details & Where to Watch
Date: Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM (Brasília Time) / 8:00 PM (Local Time)
Venue: Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat, Morocco
Live Stream (Brazil): Bandsports (Cable TV) and Esporte na Band (YouTube).
Team News: Key Absences
Both giants will be missing vital components in their midfield engines:
- Nigeria: Captain Wilfred Ndidi is sidelined due to suspension, a massive blow for Éric Chelle’s defensive structure.
- Morocco: The creative Azzedine Ounahi has failed to recover from an injury, forcing Walid Regragui to shuffle his creative options.
Predicted Lineups
- Morocco XI: Bono; Achraf Hakimi, Nayef Aguerd, Adam Masina, Noussair Mazraoui; Bilal El Khannouss, Neil El Aynaoui, Ismael Saibari; Brahim Díaz, Ez Abde, and Ayoub El Kaabi.
- Nigeria XI: Stanley Nwabali; Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Onyemaechi; Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika, Alex Iwobi; Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams, and Victor Osimhen.
What’s at Stake?
The winner of this titanic clash will advance to the Grand Final on Sunday, January 18, to face either Egypt or Senegal, who battle in the other semifinal today.
As the top-ranked African nation and a confirmed opponent for Brazil in the 2026 World Cup, Morocco carries the pressure of an entire nation. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s “Super Eagles” boast one of the most lethal attacks in the world, led by African Player of the Year Victor Osimhen.
