BREAKING: Heartbreak for Nigerians as Morocco Knock Super Eagles Out on PenaltiesTo Set Up Senegal Final Clash—-Morocco booked their place in the 2025 AFCON final after edging Nigeria on penalties following a tightly contested 0–0 semifinal, in a game defined by tactical discipline and missed opportunities.
Nigeria enjoyed promising spells and created the clearer chances but failed to find a breakthrough, allowing the contest to drift into a shootout.
There, Morocco held their nerve, with Youssef En-Nesyri converting the decisive kick to send the Atlas Lions through.
The semifinal was defined by fine margins. Nigeria finished with a slight edge in possession, while Morocco registered 16 shots, five of them on target. Morocco’s high-intensity press forced turnovers in advanced areas and generated quick transitions, but inefficiency in the final third meant those moments went unrewarded.
Nigeria, meanwhile, prioritised compact defensive game ensuring the contest remained goalless through 120 minutes before being decided by penalties.
In the penalty shootout, Morocco held their composure while Nigeria faltered on key attempts. En-Nesyri’s successful penalty sealed the victory, capping off a dramatic and physically intense semifinal that will be remembered for its tension and high stakes.
Former Chelsea FC captain César Azpilicueta has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 36.
The Spanish defender confirmed that he will hang up his boots at the end of the season, bringing an end to a remarkable career that spanned nearly two decades.
He shared this news via his social media handles.
Azpilicueta enjoyed his most successful years at Chelsea after joining the club from Marseille in 2012. During his 11-year spell at Stamford Bridge, he made more than 500 appearances and became the first player in the club’s history to win every major trophy available.
As Chelsea captain, Azpilicueta famously lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy in 2021 under Thomas Tuchel, adding to Premier League, Europa League, FA Cup, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup triumphs during his time in London.
Following his departure from Chelsea in 2023, the veteran defender spent two seasons with Atlético Madrid before joining Sevilla FC for the final chapter of his career.
Azpilicueta also represented Spain at international level, earning 44 senior caps and featuring in multiple FIFA World Cups and European Championships.
In an emotional farewell message, the defender admitted it was difficult to make the decision but thanked supporters, teammates, coaches and clubs who shaped his journey in football.
Tributes have since poured in from fans and former teammates, with many describing Azpilicueta as one of Chelsea’s greatest modern-day captains and one of the most respected defenders of his generation.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has made several major selection decisions after leaving Cole Palmer and Trent Alexander-Arnold out of the Three Lions’ final squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The omissions have quickly sparked debate among fans and pundits, with both players considered among England’s biggest talents in recent years.
According to reports, Tuchel opted for balance, tactical flexibility, and current form when finalising his 26-man squad for the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Palmer’s exclusion comes despite the Chelsea star’s strong performances over the last two seasons, while Alexander-Arnold reportedly missed out due to tactical preferences and competition in defensive areas.
The squad announcement also saw several surprise inclusions, including Ivan Toney and Djed Spence, while experienced names such as Jordan Henderson earned recalls.
Other notable absentees include Harry Maguire and Phil Foden as Tuchel reshapes the squad ahead of England’s World Cup campaign.
England will head into the tournament hoping to end decades of hurt and finally lift the World Cup trophy for the first time since 1966.
