Samuel Chukwueze’s missed penalty in the Super Eagles’ penalty shootout against Morocco has sparked debate after Nigeria lost 4-2 on spot kicks in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final in Rabat on Wednesday. The match was goalless after 120 minutes, forcing a shootout that ended Nigeria’s bid for a place in the final.
Chukwueze’s miss, alongside one from Bruno Onyemaechi, was widely discussed among fans and commentators on social media following the defeat. Some reactions focused criticism on the choice of penalty takers and shot execution, while others emphasised the high-pressure context of the shootout and the challenge of performing in front of a vocal home crowd.
Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle defended his decision to include Chukwueze among the penalty takers. He said the winger had performed strongly in penalty practice sessions in training, noting that selections were based on data and practice performance rather than gut feel. Chelle also suggested that the hostile atmosphere may have affected execution during the shootout.
The coach reiterated his support for his players as the team prepares for the third-place playoff against Egypt, emphasising unity and focus on finishing the tournament positively.
Reactions tracked on social media have been mixed. Some fans criticised Chukwueze personally for the miss and debated tactical choices, while others defended him, noting that missed penalties are part of football and do not define a player’s entire ability.
Support from public figures also surfaced, with some inviting calm and understanding in assessments of individual performance.
The shootout loss continued a recent pattern of penalties being decisive in Nigeria’s key matches, following earlier exits in tournament and qualification play decided from the spot. Despite strong team performances in regulation time, the penalty outcomes have generated discussion on strategy, preparation and pressure handling in high-stakes games.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to face Egypt for third place, offering a chance to end their 2025 AFCON campaign with a win and provide closure after a dramatic semi-final exit.
If you want, I can also give you a simple infographic summary of reactions across fans, coach and analysts. Would you like that?
