Nigeria and Egypt have joined Morocco and Senegal as the four teams advancing to the semifinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Nigeria secured their spot by knocking out Algeria with a 2-0 victory at the Stade de Marrakech. Victor Osimhen broke the deadlock in the 47th minute before providing the assist for Akor Adams to seal the win.
The Super Eagles, runners-up in the 2023 edition, are now searching for their fourth AFCON title. They are set to face hosts Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium this Wednesday. While Nigeria looks to reclaim continental dominance, the Atlas Lions, who haven’t won the trophy since 1976, aim to rewrite history on home soil with their talented new generation of players.
Egypt Edges Out Defending Champions
In a thrilling encounter at the Stade d’Agadir, seven-time champions Egypt earned their place in the final four with a hard-fought 3-2 win over defending champions Ivory Coast.
The Pharaohs took an early lead when Omar Marmoush scored just three minutes into the match. Rami Rabia extended the advantage in the 32nd minute, but the Ivorians stayed in the hunt after an own goal by Ahmed El Fotouh five minutes before the break.
In the second half, Mohamed Salah cushioned the lead by netting his ninth career AFCON goal. Although Guéla Doué reduced the deficit for Ivory Coast in the 73rd minute, Egypt’s disciplined defense held firm to see out the victory.
The Semifinal Matchups
The stage is now set for two blockbuster clashes on Wednesday:
Egypt vs. Senegal (Stade Ibn Batouta, Tangier)
Nigeria vs. Morocco (Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium)
