By DailySports Nigeria on January 16, 2026

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has given reasons why the team failed to beat Morocco in the semi final of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations, OwnGoalNigeria.com reports.

Nigeria lost 2-4 to the host on penalties after both teams remained tied at 0-0 after extra time. Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi missed their spot kicks during the shoot out handing Morocco the win.

A dejected Osimhen spoke about the defeat afterwards lamenting the difficulty they faced in building any form of momentum during the course of the game, which lasted for 120 minutes.

I have to say I’m extremely proud of this squad – the previous one and also this one – because it shows that we are one of the best footballing nations in Africa,” said Osimhen.

“It’s disappointing not to get to the final – we wanted it really bad because we’ve been working so hard from the disappointment of not reaching the World Cup, and now this.

“I think, of course, we just have to keep it moving and I think there is more and greater things to come from this squad.”

Speaking on how Morocco were able to keep them at bay despite their attack which is the best in the tournament with 14 goals, Osimhen the attack of both teams were easily contained by the defence during the game.

“They are also good tactically, and I think nothing clicked for them either – they got their moments too, just like we had our moments, but their defence and ours were always alert,” he defended.

“Their strikers didn’t get any ball or didn’t play that much, and we also struggled to pass through them, but when you play with this kind of team, you expect it to be very tough.

“So, for me, I think it’s not about the forwards being up there [getting the job done] but for us to get to the penalties, that’s why I say, football happens and it’s a game of luck, so we just have to keep it moving.”

Source DailySports Nigeria

Posted January 16, 2026

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