Iwobi: Morocco crowd won’t rattle Super Eagles

Nigeria midfielder Alex Iwobi has played down concerns over Morocco’s home support, insisting the Super Eagles will not be intimidated when both sides meet in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The encounter will take place on Wednesday night at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat, where the Atlas Lions have enjoyed overwhelming backing from home fans throughout the tournament.

Morocco, as hosts, have turned the stadium into a fortress, with large and vocal crowds accompanying their unbeaten run to the last four.

Expectations are that the atmosphere will be even more intense against Nigeria, given the stakes involved.

Focus on the pitch

Speaking at a pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Iwobi made it clear that the Super Eagles are prepared to shut out the noise and concentrate solely on the task ahead.

“When we step onto the field, distractions are irrelevant; we maintain our focus and concentration,” the Fulham midfielder said. “I am confident in our team’s abilities and preparations.”

Nigeria have impressed at AFCON 2025 with a series of controlled performances, including a dominant quarter-final victory over Algeria, and arrive in Rabat with growing belief.

Semi-final showdown in Rabat

Wednesday’s clash represents a significant hurdle in Nigeria’s quest for a fourth AFCON title.

Morocco, meanwhile, are chasing their first continental crown since 1976 and will be relying heavily on home advantage to push them into the final.