The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has entered its decisive phase following an absorbing round of quarter final matches that confirmed Senegal, Egypt, Nigeria and hosts Morocco as the final four teams left in the competition.
Former champions Senegal secured their place in the semi finals with a narrow 1–0 victory over Mali. Iliman Ndiaye struck the decisive goal in the 27th minute, while Mali’s hopes were further dented when Yves Bissouma was sent off in first half stoppage time. Senegal managed the remainder of the match with composure to seal progression.
Host nation Morocco continued their strong run by dispatching Cameroon 2–0. Brahim Díaz opened the scoring in the 26th minute before Ismael Saibari doubled the advantage in the 74th minute to send the Atlas Lions into the last four.
Nigeria also booked their semi final place after a disciplined 2–0 win over Algeria. Victor Osimhen broke the deadlock early in the second half in the 47th minute, and Akor Adams added the second goal ten minutes later as the Super Eagles maintained control.
In a thrilling encounter, Egypt edged defending champions Ivory Coast 3–2 to complete the semi final line up. Omar Marmoush scored in the fourth minute, Ramy Rabia added a second on 32 minutes, and Mohamed Salah extended Egypt’s lead shortly after the break. Ivory Coast responded through an own goal by Ahmed Abou El Fotouh in the 40th minute and a late strike from Guela Doué, but Egypt held on for victory.
The semi finals are scheduled for Wednesday January 14. Senegal will take on Egypt at 5:00 pm, while Nigeria face Morocco at 8:00 pm, with both matches set to determine the finalists.
Attention will then turn to the final, which is scheduled for Sunday, January 18 at 7:00 pm, where the two remaining teams will battle for the AFCON 2025 title.
With former champions, African heavyweights and the host nation all still in the hunt, the tournament promises a captivating finish as the race for continental supremacy intensifies.