Super Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka believes officiating decisions significantly disrupted Nigeria’s momentum during their narrow semifinal loss to Morocco at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The Brentford star played 120 minutes at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium before Samuel Chukwueze replaced him ahead of the decisive penalty shootout. Despite Nigeria’s eventual bronze-medal success against Egypt, Onyeka remains vocal about the friction caused by Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Laryea during the clash with the Atlas Lions in Rabat.
The statistical data from the match confirmed a difficult night for Eric Chelle’s side, as the Super Eagles recorded their least productive offensive display of the tournament with only two total shots. In contrast, Morocco applied relentless pressure with sixteen attempts, forcing the game into a shootout where veteran goalkeeper Yassine Bounou denied both Bruno Onyemaechi and Samuel Chukwueze. Onyeka credited Morocco’s defensive discipline but maintained that the flow of the game favored the hosts due to frequent whistles during critical Nigerian transitions.
Reflecting on the rivalry with North African opposition, Onyeka emphasized that Nigeria relies on a combination of mental fortitude and physical presence. While the Super Eagles previously dominated Algeria to reach the final four, the midfielder suggests the semifinal environment presented unique obstacles. He insists the team treats every opponent with equal intensity, regardless of their regional background, as they continue to build on their podium finish.
Frank Onyeka offered a detailed assessment of the defeat during his interview with Oma Sports TV: “Tactically, they were very good. They knew our plan and tried to stop us from doing it. I think that was the problem in the game. But the referee also helped them out because, every time we had our moment, he stopped it, which stopped our flow and let the Moroccans take the lead. That’s why it was different. Morocco were really strong, and I have to give them credit for that. When you play against North African countries, you know we are mentally strong. We are also physically strong, but we play every game without considering if the opponent is from North or West Africa.”
About the Author
