Ahead of a blockbuster Africa Cup of Nations semifinal, Bafana Bafana’s second all-time top scorer, Shaun Bartlett, who netted 29 goals for his country, has predicted the outcome of Wednesday night's showdown at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

The Super Eagles and Atlas Lions are widely regarded as the two strongest sides among the remaining four nations in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. 

Morocco boast the tournament’s best defensive record, having conceded just one goal in five matches, while Nigeria lead the scoring charts with 14 goals.

Bartlett believes the teams are evenly matched but sees the Atlas Lions as slight favourites, citing the advantage of playing at home.

Asked for his prediction, the retired South African international highlighted the impact of Morocco's passionate supporters, noting that the '12th man' could play a decisive role in such a tightly contested encounter.

Speaking on SuperSport, as monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com, Bartlett  stated: "Morocco hosts, 12th man, which is the fans behind them, against the superpower Nigeria. Redemption Afcon for Nigeria? I know but I am going to go with the host, and it is not going to be like a big score. It will be a one-goal margin. 

"The 12th man will make a difference. My heart is saying Nigeria, my head is saying Morocco."

The Super Eagles have met the Atlas Lions on five previous occasions in the Africa Cup of Nations, securing two victories and suffering three defeats.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel