Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
THE 2025 Africa Cup of Nations enters its decisive phase this weekend, with the quarter-finals taking centre stage across Morocco on Friday and Saturday as the race for continental supremacy gathers momentum.
Friday’s action gets under way in Tangier, where Mali face defending West African heavyweights Senegal in a compelling regional derby. Senegal have looked assured and efficient throughout the tournament, maintaining the consistency that carried them to the 2021 title.
Mali, however, arrive with renewed confidence after edging Tunisia on penalties in the last 16, a result that underlined their resilience and tactical discipline. Their ability to absorb pressure and strike at key moments could pose a serious test for the former champions.
Later in Rabat, hosts Morocco take on Cameroon in one of Africa’s classic rivalries. Morocco, buoyed by home support, are seeking to reach the semi-finals on home soil, while Cameroon, five-time champions, bring a pedigree built on tournament know-how and physical authority.
History suggests little separates the two when they meet on the continental stage.
Saturday’s fixtures open in Marrakech with a heavyweight clash between Algeria and Nigeria. Both nations are former champions and among the most consistent performers in AFCON history.
Algeria, champions in 2019, progressed through extra time, while Nigeria, three-time winners, were emphatic in their last-16 victory over Mozambique. It is a contest between structure and speed, with a semi-final place at stake.
In Agadir, Egypt face Côte d’Ivoire, the defending champions, in a showdown rich in pedigree. Egypt, Africa’s most successful nation with seven titles, have built a reputation on resilience and tactical control.
Côte d’Ivoire, who lifted the trophy at the last edition, will be chasing a rare back-to-back crown.
The two giants have shared many tense AFCON encounters over the years, and another finely-balanced contest is expected.
With margins narrowing and pressure rising, only the most composed and disciplined sides will take one step closer to Africa’s most coveted prize.
