Morocco 2025: Eight Nations, Four Wars, One Crown

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco has reached its fever pitch. After a grueling Round of 16 that saw favorites solidify their status and underdogs fight to the bitter end, the quarter-final bracket is officially set.

Fans across the continent are bracing for two days of high-stakes football on January 9 and 10, 2026, as the "Big Eight" battle for a spot in the semi-finals.

The Friday Double-Header: January 9, 2026

1. Mali vs. Senegal

Time: 17:00 GMT

Venue: Ibn Batouta Stadium, Tangier

The "Lions of Teranga" look unstoppable. Senegal cruised through the Round of 16 with a 3–1 win over Sudan, fueled by a brace from Papa Gueye. However, they face a resilient Mali side that has proven it can survive high-pressure situations, having edged out Tunisia in a dramatic penalty shootout.

• Key Battle: Senegal’s clinical attack vs. Mali’s defensive discipline.
• H2H Factor: Historically, Senegal holds the advantage, but their only previous AFCON meeting (2004) ended in a 1–1 draw.

2. Cameroon vs. Morocco

Time: 20:00 GMT

Venue: Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat

This is arguably the "Final before the Final." Host nation Morocco is on a 23-game unbeaten streak, with Brahim Díaz making history by scoring in four consecutive AFCON matches. They face the "Indomitable Lions" of Cameroon, who fought back to beat South Africa 2–1.

• The Streak: Morocco has never beaten Cameroon in an AFCON tournament (0 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses).
• The Atmosphere: Expect a sell-out crowd in Rabat as the Atlas Lions look to break their historical "Cameroon curse" on home soil.

The Saturday Showdown: January 10, 2026

3. Algeria vs. Nigeria

Time: 17:00 GMT

Venue: Stade Prince Moulay Al Hassan, Rabat

Two of Africa’s most potent offenses collide. Algeria reached this stage after a 119th-minute winner against DR Congo, while Nigeria’s "Super Eagles" made a statement by dismantling Mozambique 4–0, featuring a double from Victor Osimhen.

• The Rivalry: This is a repeat of the 2019 semi-final, where a last-minute Riyad Mahrez free-kick sent Algeria to the final. Nigeria will be hunting for revenge.
• Form Watch: Nigeria is the only team to have won every single game in the tournament so far.

4. Egypt vs. Ivory Coast

Time: 20:00 GMT

Venue: Adrar Stadium, Agadir

A true clash of titans. Egypt needed extra time and a Mohamed Salah goal in the 120th minute to overcome Benin. They now face the defending champions, Ivory Coast, who silenced doubters with a dominant 3–0 win over Burkina Faso.

• Recent History: These two met in the 2021 Round of 16, where Egypt won on penalties.
• Star Power: It’s a battle of the icons—Salah’s leadership vs. the youthful energy of the Ivorian frontline.

Quarter-Final Schedule at a Glance

Date - Match - Time (GMT) - City

Jan 9 - Mali vs. Senegal -17:00 - Tangier

Jan 9 - Cameroon vs. Morocco - 20:00 - Rabat

Jan 10 - Algeria vs. Nigeria - 17:00 - Rabat

Jan 10 - Egypt vs. Ivory Coast - 20:00 - Agadir

Note: All winners will advance to the semi-finals scheduled for January 14, 2026.

-AMG Records