Nigeria, Jan. 15 -- The chase for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title will stretch beyond 2026 for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, after their agonising semi-final defeat to hosts Atlas Lions of Morocco in Rabat on Wednesday night.

At the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah, Morocco controlled the rhythm, monopolised possession, and created the clearer openings. Nigeria, by contrast, managed just one attempt on goal, a first-half effort from Ademola Lookman.

Yet, despite being second-best for long spells, Nigeria stayed alive, thanks almost entirely to Stanley Nwabali. The Chippa United goalkeeper was repeatedly called into action, helping the Super Eagles through regulation time, extra time, and eventually into a penalty shootout.

Nwabali even...