AFCON 2025:Quarterfinals Set to Ignite the Continent

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations reaches its decisive phase this weekend, with four heavyweight quarterfinals set to ignite the continent as the race for continental glory intensifies.

Friday opens with a West African derby as Mali face Senegal (18:00). Mali have progressed through resilience, drawing all three group matches before eliminating Tunisia on penalties, and remain the only quarterfinalists yet to win an AFCON title. Senegal, unbeaten winners of Group D, look formidable after a 3–1 victory over Sudan, driven by midfield power and attacking balance. Discipline meets dominance in a clash of contrasting styles.

Mali players celebrates victory during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON match ©Ladjal Djaffar/BackpagePix

The hosts then take centre stage as Cameroon meet Morocco (21:00). Cameroon impressed in a 2–1 win over South Africa, while Morocco continue their pursuit of a first AFCON crown since 1976. Brahim Diaz’s tournament-long scoring streak secured a narrow last-16 win over Tanzania, with coach Walid Regragui demanding further improvement despite the victory.

Saturday delivers two blockbuster ties. Algeria v Nigeria (18:00) pits control against explosiveness. Algeria were flawless in the group stage but needed extra time to edge DR Congo, while Nigeria sent a statement by dismantling Mozambique 4–0. The duel between Riyad Mahrez’s composure and Ademola Lookman’s pace and creativity could prove decisive.

Mohamed Salah of Egypt celebrates goal with teammates during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON match ©Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix

The final quarterfinal sees African royalty collide as Egypt face Ivory Coast (21:00). Egypt, record champions, survived a scare against Benin, while reigning holders Ivory Coast swept past Burkina Faso with authority. Mohamed Salah’s experience meets the youthful flair of Amad Diallo in a tie worthy of a final.

Four matches, eight contenders and only four semifinal places remain. AFCON 2025 is poised for a defining weekend.

AFCON Quarterfinal Broadcast Details
Friday 9 January

18:00: Mali v Senegal – LIVE on SuperSport AFCON and SuperSport Maximo 360

21:00: Cameroon v Morocco – LIVE on SuperSport AFCON and SuperSport Maximo 360

Saturday 10 January

18:00: Algeria v Nigeria – LIVE on SuperSport AFCON and SuperSport Maximo 360

21:00: Egypt v Ivory Coast – LIVE on SuperSport AFCON and SuperSport Maximo 360