Blockbuster AFCON 2025 Semi-Finals Confirmed as Morocco Face Nigeria, Senegal Play Egypt
The semi-final line-up for the 35th Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 has been confirmed, with Africa’s traditional heavyweights left standing after a dramatic quarter-final weekend filled with goals, tension and high drama.
Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco and Senegal all sealed their places in the last four after Saturday night’s matches, setting up two blockbuster encounters.
Hosts Morocco will take on star-studded Nigeria, while Senegal face Egypt in a clash of continental giants. Both matches will be played on Wednesday, 14 January, ahead of the final in Rabat on 18 January.
Seven-time champions Egypt claimed the final semi-final spot after knocking out defending champions Côte d’Ivoire 3–2 in a thrilling contest. The Pharaohs, now in their 14th AFCON semi-final, are chasing a record-extending eighth continental crown.
Earlier, Senegal booked their place with a hard-fought 1–0 win over Mali. Iliman Ndiaye’s first-half strike proved decisive in a tense West African derby. The Teranga Lions showcased their tournament maturity, controlling the contest and protecting their slender advantage to reach yet another semi-final.
Hosts Morocco remain firmly on course for a first continental title in 50 years after a composed 2–0 victory over Cameroon in Rabat. Goals from Brahim Diaz and Ismaël Saibari highlighted the Atlas Lions’ attacking quality and defensive balance, keeping their home campaign alive.
Completing the quartet are Nigeria, who dispatched Algeria 2–0 in Marrakech. Victor Osimhen broke the deadlock after a tightly contested opening spell before Akor Adams sealed the win 10 minutes after Osimhen scored.
The result confirmed Nigeria’s return to the last four and set up a blockbuster clash with Morocco.
The Super Eagles will be seeking to become the first side in AFCON history to win six straight games in open play and qualify for their ninth final in what will be their 17th semi-final appearance.
The semi-finals promise to deliver another chapter of high drama as Africa’s giants battle for a place in the final in Rabat.
