AFCON 2025 Quarter-Finals Promise High-Drama Football Across Morocco

Addis Ababa, January 8, 2026 (FMC) – The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 enters a crucial stage as eight teams advance to the quarter-finals, setting the scene for high-stakes clashes across Morocco this weekend. Fans across the continent are eagerly anticipating what promises to be a weekend of intense football and dramatic turnarounds.

Host nation Morocco will face five-time champions Cameroon in Rabat. The Atlas Lions, who topped their group with commanding performances, are seeking their first continental title since 1976.

Despite their strong showing in the tournament so far, Morocco has faced moments of tension, notably in their narrow 1-0 win over Tanzania in the Round of 16. Cameroon, meanwhile, demonstrated their resilience with a 2-1 victory against South Africa and will look to leverage their physical style of play to challenge the hosts.

In Tangier, West African heavyweights Senegal and Mali go head-to-head in what is expected to be a fast-paced, hard-fought encounter. Senegal has impressed throughout the tournament, remaining unbeaten and showcasing a balanced attack led by key forwards. Mali, meanwhile, has quietly advanced through the rounds, relying on a disciplined defense and quick counterattacks, making this matchup unpredictable and highly competitive.

Saturday’s fixtures will feature another clash of football giants as Algeria renews rivalries with Nigeria in Marrakech. Algeria enters the quarter-finals unbeaten and has displayed some of the tournament’s most fluid attacking football.

Nigeria, a five-time AFCON winner, has also been strong in the knockout stages, demonstrating tactical versatility and depth in its squad. Football analysts expect a closely contested match, with both sides capable of turning the game in their favor at any moment.

In Agadir, Egypt faces defending champions Côte d’Ivoire, rekindling one of Africa’s classic football rivalries. Egypt’s campaign has been led by the experience of Mohamed Salah, whose leadership and scoring ability remain crucial. Côte d’Ivoire, with a history of strong performances in knockout tournaments, will aim to defend their title and assert dominance against one of the continent’s most decorated teams.

The quarter-final lineup reflects the strength and depth of African football, featuring teams that collectively hold multiple continental titles and boast extensive experience at the highest level. The winners of these matches will move on to the semi-finals scheduled for January 14, bringing them one step closer to the final showdown in Rabat on January 18.

As AFCON 2025 reaches this pivotal stage, fans across Africa are bracing for a weekend filled with drama, skill, and passion, with each game carrying the potential to make history.