AFCON 2025 is down to its final four after a dramatic set of quarterfinal clashes that saw Senegal, Egypt, Nigeria and hosts Morocco book their places in the semi-finals.
2021 Champions Senegal edged past Mali 1–0 in a tense all-West African showdown.
Iliman Ndiaye found the breakthrough in the 27th minute, and Mali’s task became even tougher when Yves Bissouma was shown a red card just before halftime.
The Teranga Lions held firm to see out the victory.
At home, Morocco maintained their strong campaign with a convincing 2–0 win over Cameroon.
Real Madrid’s Brahim Díaz opened the scoring midway through the first half, and Ismael Saibari sealed the result late in the game to send the Atlas Lions into the last four.
Nigeria also progressed after a solid 2–0 triumph over Algeria.
Victor Osimhen struck shortly after the restart, and Akor Adams added a second ten minutes later as the Super Eagles produced a composed performance.
Egypt completed the semi-final lineup after a thrilling 3–2 victory over defending champions Côte d’Ivoire.
Early goals from Omar Marmoush and Ramy Rabia put the Pharaohs in control, before Mohamed Salah made it three.
An own goal by Ahmed Abou El Fotouh and a late strike from Guela Doué gave Ivory Coast hope, but Egypt held on.
The semi-finals will be played on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
Senegal will face Egypt at 5:00 pm, while Nigeria take on hosts Morocco at 8:00 pm, with the Atlas Lions chasing a second AFCON title after 50 years.
The final is scheduled for Sunday, January 18, where the remaining two teams will battle for continental glory, as AFCON 2025 heads toward a thrilling climax.
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Story by Erica Odeenyin Odoom | univers.ug.edu.gh
