AFCON Semis: Ighalo Predicts Nigeria to Edge Morocco as Senegal Seals a Final Duel with Egypt

Exclusive AFCON Forecast from Odion Ighalo

Odion Ighalo, the former Nigeria and Manchester United forward, spoke to Kooora about the Africa Cup of Nations semifinals, offering a bold preview: Nigeria versus Morocco, and Senegal against Egypt, with a Nigerian triumph in the final.

Nigeria meet Morocco on home turf after the Eagles of the Desert (Morocco) advanced past Algeria 2-0 in the quarterfinals, while Egypt prepared to clash with Senegal following Egypt's 3-2 win over Ivory Coast and Senegal's 1-0 victory over Mali.

In the interview, Ighalo laid out his two-semi predictions: “I expect Nigeria to beat Morocco 2-1.” He continued, “The other match could end 2-2 with Senegal winning on penalties, or Senegal could win 2-1.”

Discussing the potential final, he added: “Naturally, Nigeria will lift the cup over Senegal.” The predictions come as AFCON fans brace for two gripping semifinals that could redefine this year’s edition.

As the matchups loom, the preview notes that Algeria and Mali’s eliminations were pivotal in shaping the path to the title, while the two semifinals promise drama, drama, and more drama—plus a trophy that loves a good plot twist.

Punchline 1: If confidence were a goal, Ighalo just scored a hat-trick. Punchline 2: This AFCON is so spicy, even the net is sweating.