The ongoing 2025 AFCON is now approaching its climax, with eight nations now remaining in a tournament that has seen 16 teams sent packing.
The quarter final stage will take place on January 9th and 10th, promising a series of high-stakes encounters between some of Africa’s traditional powerhouses and rising stars.
The action kicks on Friday, January 9th, with an all-West African clash between Mali and Senegal. Mali reached the quarter finals after stunning Tunisia on penalties, having played over 90 minutes with 10 men.
Senegal came from behind to beat Sudan 3-1 in the round of 16. The encounter in Tangier is expected to be a tight tactical battle. Later that evening, host nation Morocco will take on five-time champions Cameroon in Rabat.
The Atlas Lions, backed by a passionate home crowd and fresh off a remarkable 2025 FIFA Arab World Cup performance, will look to leverage their home advantage against a resilient Cameroonian team.
Morocco beat Tanzania 1-0 to advance to the quarters, while Cameroon dispatched South Africa 2-1.
On Saturday, January 10th, three-time winners Nigeria will be taking on Algeria. Nigeria will be hoping the off-field drama involving star player Victor Osimhen will not ensure anymore. Algeria, who have been dominant thus far, will be hoping for a repeat of their 2019 dream run, which saw them go all the way.
The final quarter-final clash will involve seven-time champions Egypt take on 2015 and 2023 winners Ivory Coast. The clash will take place in Agadir, pitting the Pharaoh’s pedigree against the Elephants’ technical flair and physical presence.
These four matches will determine who advances to the semi-finals.
Mali vs Senegal: 7:00 PM - Stade Ibn-Batouta, Tangier
Cameroon vs Morocco: 10:00 PM - Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat
Algeria vs Nigeria: 7:00 PM - Stade de Marrakech, Marrakech
Egypt vs Ivory Coast: 10:00 PM - Adrar Stadium, Agadir
Note: EAT (East Africa Time) is UTC+3. Local times in Morocco are UTC+1.
