Ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semifinal clash between Morocco and Nigeria on Wednesday, Moroccans have expressed confidence in the ability of the host nation to pip the Super Eagles for the final ticket.

As the host nation, Morocco have enjoyed immense support from the home crowd and, coupled with the quality of their players, the Atlas Lions are the team to beat in the tournament and the fans are again backing the team to overcome the rejuvenated Nigerian team.

Speaking to Peoples Gazette ahead of the Wednesday clash that Moroccans desired since the beginning of the competition, many were sure of the Atlas Lions’ capacity to emerge victorious while others were pessimistic about their chances of winning.

A hotel manager in Fes, identified only as Mohammed, where Super Eagles played all their group stage matches and round of 16 tie at the AFCON, acknowledged the quality of the Nigerian players but confident that Morocco would win, citing recent football progress in the country. 

“I strongly believe in the national team. We have a very good group, a competent coaching staff, and we can clearly see the development of Moroccan football in recent years,” Mr Mohammed said 

He added, “That said, Nigeria remains a strong team with very good players, so I have some apprehension about this match. But despite everything, I am confident and I think we will win, God willing.”

Asked by our correspondent about the player he is scared of causing trouble for Morocco in the game, he quickly answered “of course Osimhen,” adding that he is “too strong.”

Also a taxi driver, who gave his name only as Abdelhak, also shared the same his belief in the team, stating that he has been anticipating the match since the start of AFCON.

He added that the Super Eagles have good players but Morocco would win. 

“I have been looking forward to a game between Nigeria and Morocco since the start of the tournament. Nigeria has many good players but Morocco will win on Monday,” the middle-aged aged man said. 

In his contribution, aspiring teenage footballer Brahim Ali, stated that the “match is going to be an interesting game and the teams will give each other tough time but I think Morocco will win because of home support.” 

Meanwhile, an Airbnb host in Casablanca, Anal Omar, doesn’t believe Morocco has any chance of defeating Nigeria unless the match goes into a penalty shootout. 

“I think Nigeria will win, or at worst Morocco will win by penalty; that’s my prediction,” Mr Omar told The Gazette.