by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 13, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
The Angolan Football Federation is reportedly attempting to lure Nigeria’s head coach, Eric Chelle, with a doubled salary offer of $100,000 per month, amid his impressive Africa Cup of Nations campaign with the Super Eagles.
Chelle currently earns $50,000 per month under his contract with the Nigeria Football Federation and has one year remaining on that deal. Angola, seeking a new coach after a disappointing group-stage exit at AFCON 2025, sees Chelle’s recent success as an opportunity to strengthen their team.
Reports indicate that several African federations have expressed interest in Chelle due to Nigeria’s attacking and dynamic form throughout the tournament. While the Super Eagles prepare for a semi-final showdown, the Angolan approach serves as a reminder that football battles are often fought off the pitch, in the negotiations that shape a team’s future.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 13, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
As anticipation builds for Wednesday’s Africa Cup of Nations semi-final, Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has issued a clear warning to Nigeria, signaling his team’s readiness for a fierce contest.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Regragui stressed that Morocco are unfazed by the Super Eagles’ reputation and are determined to impose their style from the opening whistle.
Widely regarded as one of the tournament’s most tactically disciplined teams, Morocco have shown depth, tactical awareness, and collective mentality as key strengths. “We respect Nigeria for their quality and history, but respect does not mean fear,” Regragui said. “This is AFCON—every match is a final. We are ready.”
The Moroccan coach highlighted Nigeria’s attacking prowess, physicality, and experience but insisted his team has studied the Super Eagles closely and is prepared to neutralize their main threats. He outlined a strategy focused on possession dominance, high pressure, and defensive solidity.
While Nigeria arrive with confidence, boasting Europe-based talent and a strong AFCON pedigree, Regragui stressed that individual star power would not decide the outcome. “Football is played by teams, not names,” he noted. “If Nigeria gives us space, we will punish them.”
With both sides considered title contenders, Wednesday’s clash promises to be one of AFCON 2025’s most compelling fixtures. Morocco’s message is clear: they are not here merely to compete, but to assert control and make a bold statement.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 13, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has finally cleared the Black Princesses’ per diems owed for their 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Qualifier against Tunisia.
Coach Charles Sampson’s squad had not received their allowances for the period spent in camp for last year’s double-header against the North African side. The Black Princesses secured a 4-1 aggregate victory over Tunisia, progressing to the next stage of the qualifiers, where they will face South Africa.
With the upcoming third-round clash against South Africa scheduled in three weeks, the timely payment of per diems comes as a morale boost for the team as they continue their pursuit of World Cup qualification.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 13, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
Attendance at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has exceeded the one-million mark, underscoring the growing popularity and commercial appeal of Africa’s premier football tournament.
Official figures reveal that more than one million fans have attended matches since the competition began, putting AFCON 2025 on track to set a new all-time attendance record. The current record of 1,109,593 spectators was set during the 2023 edition, and with just over 56,000 more fans needed, organisers are confident the milestone will be surpassed as the tournament progresses.
As the competition enters its decisive stages, including quarter-finals and knockout rounds, even larger crowds are expected across host stadiums. Factors driving the strong turnout include high-profile fixtures, improved fan engagement, enhanced stadium facilities, and better matchday organisation.
If this trend continues, AFCON 2025 will not only eclipse the previous record but also set a new benchmark for fan participation in African football.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 13, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
It’s Nigeria versus Morocco on Wednesday night in Rabat, as two of Africa’s most compelling football stories collide at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. The Super Eagles, the tournament’s most potent attacking team, will face host nation Morocco, widely regarded as the most disciplined and resilient defensive side, with a place in the Africa Cup of Nations final at stake.
For Nigeria, the semi-final represents a chance to reach their ninth AFCON final and move closer to a fourth continental title. For Morocco, it’s an opportunity to make history in front of nearly 68,000 passionate fans and edge nearer to their first AFCON crown since 1976. Both teams are unbeaten, having eliminated formidable opponents, and now face their toughest challenge of the tournament.
Preview
Nigeria have dazzled at AFCON 2025, scoring 14 goals in five matches under Éric Chelle. The Super Eagles combine physical strength, pace, and sharp interplay, particularly between Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen.
Morocco, by contrast, has built their campaign on patience, control, and defensive solidity. Walid Regragui’s side has conceded just once in five matches—and none from open play. Their approach gradually stifles opponents, limiting chances while managing games with calm precision.
This semi-final is a clash of philosophies: attacking freedom versus defensive perfection. With high stakes and a hostile atmosphere, fine margins are likely to decide the outcome.
Road to the Semi-Finals
Nigeria began AFCON 2025 with a 2–1 win over Tanzania, followed by a thrilling 3–2 victory against Tunisia. A rotated squad then beat Uganda 3–1, before a 4–0 demolition of Mozambique in the round of 16. The Super Eagles secured their semi-final spot with a commanding 2–0 win over pre-tournament favourites Algeria.
Morocco topped their group with wins against Comoros and Zambia, alongside a draw with Mali. In the knockout rounds, they eliminated Tanzania and Cameroon while maintaining defensive discipline and composure.
Head-to-Head
This is the sixth AFCON meeting between Nigeria and Morocco, and their first in 22 years. Historically, Morocco won both encounters in 1976 en route to the title, while Nigeria responded in 1980 with a semi-final win. In total, the sides have met 11 times across all competitions—Morocco six wins, Nigeria three, and two draws.
Team News
Nigeria will be without captain Wilfred Ndidi due to suspension. Raphael Onyedika is expected to fill the midfield void. Bright Osayi-Samuel remains a doubt, while Cyriel Dessers is ruled out. Ryan Alebiosu has returned to training but may not feature.
Morocco will miss Azzedine Ounahi and Romain Saïss but are boosted by the fitness of Achraf Hakimi, who is pivotal both offensively and defensively.
Possible Line-Ups
Nigeria (4-3-1-2 diamond):
Nwabali; Osayi-Samuel, Ajayi, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Onyeka, Onyedika, Iwobi; Lookman, Osimhen, Adams.
Morocco (4-3-3):
Bono; Hakimi, Aguerd, Masina, Mazraoui; El Khannouss, El Aynaoui, Saibari; Diaz, Ezzalzouli, El Kaabi.
Key Players to Watch
For Nigeria: Ademola Lookman, involved in seven goals at AFCON 2025, and Victor Osimhen, whose movement and leadership stretch defences.
For Morocco: Brahim Díaz, who has scored in five consecutive AFCON matches, Achraf Hakimi, and Ismail Saibari, crucial to the hosts’ balance.
Match Details
Match: Nigeria vs Morocco, AFCON 2025
Semi-final
Date: Wednesday, 14 January 2026
Time: 8:00 PM GMT / 9:00 PM local time
Venue: Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat
Prediction
A tense, high-quality semi-final awaits. Morocco’s defensive record and home support make them formidable, but Nigeria’s attacking form and momentum are hard to ignore. If the Super Eagles score first, the game could tilt in their favour.
Prediction: Nigeria 2–1 Morocco
