AFCON 2025: What Morocco's goalkeeper said after ending Super Eagles' dream

For 120 minutes, the highest-scoring attack in AFCON 2025 threw everything they had at the Moroccan goal. But standing in the way of Nigeria’s Super Eagles was a man who has made a career out of defying the impossible.

Yassine Bounou (Bono) emerged as the ultimate heartbreak for the Super Eagles, saving two penalties in the decisive shootout to send the host nation into Sunday’s final.

Speaking to CAF media following the emotional 4–2 penalty victory (after a 0–0 draw), the Al-Hilal goalkeeper broke his silence on what it took to stop Nigeria’s relentless offensive machinery.

While Bounou was the hero of the night, his reflections were marked by deep respect for a Nigerian side that had scored 14 goals leading up to the semi-final.

“The atmosphere during the match was wonderful. I thank all the fans who supported us. The players did what was required in a match that was not easy at all, and the opponent delivered a very strong performance,” Bounou said.

The goalkeeper credited his success to the tactical preparation of coach Walid Regragui and the "extra motivation" provided by the Moroccan public.

“I say thank you to all Moroccans who supported me. Our people love the players of the national team, and that gives us extra motivation to repay their trust. We will focus on recovery and prepare for the final.”

For Nigerian fans, Bounou’s comments serve as a bittersweet soundtrack to their exit. The Super Eagles created decent chances throughout regulation time, including late efforts from Akor Adams and Ademola Lookman, only to find Bounou in an impenetrable mood.

The pain intensified during the shootout when Bounou guessed correctly to deny both Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi. His heroics turned what many Nigerians felt should have been a victory into a frustrating stalemate, ultimately ending the Super Eagles' pursuit of a fourth title.

Bounou’s reflections provide a rare insight into the mental fortitude required to face the likes of Victor Osimhen. Despite being untested for large periods, his composure ensured that Nigeria failed to score for the first time in the entire tournament.

While Morocco prepare for a historic final against Senegal, Nigeria is left to rue the "What Ifs." The Super Eagles will now face Egypt in the third-place playoff on Saturday, a match that offers scant consolation for a team that looked destined for gold.