The final four at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations have been decided, with the continent’s familiar powerhouses emerging from a gripping quarter-final round marked by intensity, late drama and decisive moments.
Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco and Senegal all booked their places in the semi-finals, bringing the last-eight stage to a close on Saturday night.
Hosts Morocco will lock horns with a star-studded Nigeria side, while Senegal — the first team to reach the semi-finals — are set for a heavyweight showdown against Egypt. Both matches will be played on Wednesday, January 21.
Seven-time champions Egypt clinched the final semi-final spot after edging defending champions Côte d’Ivoire 3-2 in a pulsating encounter, bringing the Elephants’ title defence to an end and setting up a mouthwatering clash with Senegal.
Senegal had earlier secured their place with a narrow but hard-earned 1-0 victory over Mali, as Iliman Ndiaye’s first-half strike proved enough to settle a tense West African derby.
Morocco remain firmly on track for a first AFCON crown in five decades after a composed 2-0 win over Cameroon in Rabat on Friday night. Goals from Brahim Diaz and Ismaël Saibari highlighted the Atlas Lions’ attacking flair and defensive solidity as they continued an impressive home campaign.
Nigeria completed the semi-final line-up with a disciplined 2-0 victory over Algeria in Marrakech. Victor Osimhen opened the scoring after a closely fought opening period before Akor Adams sealed the result late on, confirming the Super Eagles’ return to the last four and setting up a blockbuster encounter with the hosts.
Semi-final fixtures
Senegal vs Egypt — 17:00 GMT, Tangier Grand Stadium
Nigeria vs Morocco — 20:00 GMT, Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium
