Cup of Nations stays with form as Africa's top two dominate

RABAT, Jan 15 : The rankings proved spot on as Africa's top two teams advanced to this weekend's Cup of Nations final, with Morocco and Senegal setting up a heavyweight clash.

But while Senegal overcame Egypt 1-0 in 90 minutes in Tangier on Wednesday, Morocco needed a penalty shootout before disposing of Nigeria after a goalless draw in Rabat to book their place in Sunday's decider.

The Cup of Nations has regularly produced surprises and upsets with previous editions having seen many pre-tournament favourites falter, but this time the two best teams will contest the final as a strong field in Morocco has been progressively whittled down, with the rankings proving accurate for once.

Morocco, whose only Cup of Nations triumph came half a century ago, are one of several previous underachievers, notably in recent years when the quality of their squad suggested they could win the trophy, but they are now on the cusp of success.

At this Cup of Nations as hosts they looked nervy initially under the burden of expectation but in their last two matches have shown the form that has seen them ranked top on the continent since their World Cup exploits in Qatar in 2022 when they became the first African country to reach a semi-final.

MOROCCO LOOKING STRONGER AS TOURNAMENT UNFOLDS

Morocco’s aggressive pressing, high-tempo play and relentless attack saw them easily dispose of Cameroon in the quarter-finals, and while Nigeria proved tougher to dislodge in the semis, they were again much the better side.

Morocco finished the game stronger and fitter and converted all their penalties bar one with aplomb.

On top of this, their defence gave Nigeria's dangerous forward Victor Osimhen no opportunities, marking him out of the game. Morocco have