Morocco head coach, Walid Regragui, has revealed the key tactical idea that helped the Atlas Lions edge past Nigeria in their Africa Cup of Nations semi-final clash on Wednesday night.

The tightly contested encounter ended goalless after regulation and extra time, before Morocco triumphed in a penalty shootout to book their place in the AFCON final. According to Regragui, neutralising Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi was central to his game plan.

Speaking at his post-match press conference, the Moroccan coach admitted that his team deliberately focused on cutting off Iwobi’s influence, knowing how important the Fulham star is to Nigeria’s attacking flow.

“Tactically, we can’t share all the details,” Regragui said. “The plan was to stop their playmaker Iwobi, and he was looking to pass the ball to Osimhen and Lookman.”

Although Iwobi has not registered an assist since Nigeria’s opening match against Tanzania, his role in linking midfield to attack had been vital throughout the tournament. By limiting his time and space on the ball, Morocco effectively starved Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman of quality service.

Regragui further explained the physical and mental demands of executing the plan.
“It was a bit tough because it needed a lot of energy. We needed to push harder, keep moving back to stay organised, win the ball when passes were bad, and then move fast to start attacking,” he added.

Morocco’s defensive discipline, especially on Achraf Hakimi’s flank, ensured Nigeria struggled to progress the ball effectively. The Super Eagles found it difficult to build momentum, and their main attacking threats were largely isolated throughout the match.

“We had a complete game today,” Regragui concluded. “For some players, I really admire them.”

Following the defeat, Nigeria will now face Egypt in the third-place playoff on Saturday at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca.

Opinion: When Tactics Decide Big Matches

Regragui’s admission highlights a harsh reality of top-level football: shut down the system, and you limit the stars. Morocco did not attempt to outplay Nigeria in open attacking exchanges; instead, they outthought them.

By targeting Iwobi, the Atlas Lions effectively cut the supply line to Osimhen and Lookman—two of Nigeria’s most dangerous weapons. It was a reminder that modern football is as much about controlling influence as it is about individual brilliance.

For Nigeria, this match offers an important lesson. When one creative outlet is neutralised, alternative routes must exist. Flexibility, midfield depth, and quicker tactical adjustments could have changed the story.

Still, credit must go to Morocco for their discipline and intelligence. They didn’t just win on penalties; they won the chess match long before the shootout began.