Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has sounded a note of caution to his players ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations semi-final showdown against Nigeria, identifying three Super Eagles stars as major dangers.

Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s encounter in Rabat, Regragui highlighted Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Alex Iwobi as Nigeria’s key attacking weapons, stressing that the West Africans remain a formidable force despite missing a crucial midfielder.

While acknowledging that the suspension of Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi offers Morocco some advantage, the Atlas Lions coach insisted it does little to diminish Nigeria’s overall threat. Ndidi will sit out the tie after accumulating bookings in the knockout rounds, creating a vacancy in Nigeria’s midfield. However, Regragui believes the quality further up the pitch still requires maximum vigilance.

Osimhen and Lookman have been central to Nigeria’s impressive AFCON campaign, playing decisive roles in most of the team’s goals. Lookman has stood out with his creativity and cutting edge, while Osimhen’s movement and physical presence continue to trouble defenders.

Iwobi, though less prolific in front of goal, has been crucial in dictating play and linking Nigeria’s attack with intelligent positioning and accurate passing.

“Ndidi’s absence gives us some comfort, but with Osimhen, Lookman, Iwobi, and the depth they have on the bench, Nigeria can easily adapt,” Regragui admitted.

He also urged his side to be more proactive than in earlier matches, warning that a cautious approach could prove costly.

“We must stay focused, win our individual battles, and avoid dropping too deep like we did against Cameroon, because Nigeria can punish you,” he said.

Nigeria are expected to reshuffle their midfield, with Raphael Onyedika likely to step in to cover for Ndidi.