Nigeria’s painful exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has spilled far beyond the pitch, dragging celebrity fortunes and online bravado into the spotlight. Music superstar Davido and social media personality Peller are now at the centre of a betting storm after losing big money following the Super Eagles’ penalty shootout defeat to Morocco in Rabat.
Davido reportedly staked a staggering $50,000 on a high-risk combination bet, backing Nigeria to win, both teams to score, and more than two goals to be recorded. The gamble unraveled long before the final whistle as the semi-final ended scoreless after extra time. His losing ticket quickly went viral, turning the singer into trending material across Nigerian social media.
Not to be left out, internet personality Peller also placed a $3,000 bet on a straight Nigeria victory. That hope vanished as Morocco edged the Super Eagles 4-2 on penalties, sealing their place in the AFCON final and leaving both celebrity bettors empty-handed.
On the pitch, the semi-final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium was a tense and cautious affair. Nigeria and Morocco played out a drab 0-0 draw, with both sides more concerned about avoiding mistakes than chasing goals. Despite the attacking talent on display, clear chances were scarce throughout regulation time and extra time.
Morocco’s main threats came from the flanks, where Brahim Diaz and Abdessamad Ezzalzouli caused problems, particularly against Nigeria’s right side. Ezzalzouli repeatedly tested goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who stood firm to keep the Super Eagles in the contest.
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Nigeria struggled going forward. Ademola Lookman found little space to operate, while stand-in captain Victor Osimhen cut a frustrated figure, isolated for long spells and starved of service. Coach Eric Chelle eventually withdrew the Galatasaray striker late in extra time, clearly preparing his side for penalties.
The shootout swung back and forth. Morocco blinked first when Hamza Igamane saw his effort saved by Nwabali, but Nigeria failed to take advantage. Samuel Chukwueze’s tame penalty was easily stopped, shifting momentum back to the hosts. The decisive moment came when left-back Bruno Onyemaechi, one of Nigeria’s standout performers at the tournament, had his penalty saved by Bono. Youssef En-Nesyri then calmly converted to send Morocco through to the final, where they will face Senegal.
As Morocco celebrated, Nigerian fans turned their attention online to Davido and Peller’s losses. Jokes and memes flooded timelines, with many noting that while the Super Eagles fought hard, betting loyalty had once again proved costly. The night ended with Morocco advancing, bookmakers smiling, and a familiar reminder that football offers no guarantees, no matter the confidence or the odds.
