Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 has reached its most decisive phase, with the quarter-finals coming into clear focus and the continent’s biggest names lining up for unmissable battles.
The final push toward clarity came on Tuesday night in Rabat, where Algeria showed grit and patience to edge DR Congo 1–0 after extra time.
With penalties looming, substitute Adil Boulbina struck in the 119th minute, turning a tense stalemate into relief and celebration as the Desert Foxes booked their place in the last eight.
That late winner set up a blockbuster meeting with Nigeria. The Super Eagles had already made their intentions clear a night earlier, dismantling Mozambique 4–0.
Victor Osimhen’s brace led a ruthless display and reinforced Nigeria’s belief that a fourth AFCON title is within reach.
Seven quarter-finalists are now confirmed. Senegal, Mali, hosts Morocco, Cameroon, Egypt and Nigeria had already progressed, leaving just one Round of 16 tie involving Côte d’Ivoire to complete the line-up.
The last eight reflect Africa’s familiar power structure. Egypt, seven-time champions, are back on a stage they know well.
Cameroon’s five titles and Nigeria’s three speak to their pedigree while Senegal and Morocco continue to assert themselves as modern forces.
Algeria and Côte d’Ivoire bring further depth with their own continental success, leaving Mali as the lone side still chasing a first AFCON crown.
The confirmed quarter-final fixtures promise intensity across Morocco
• Mali vs Senegal
Friday, January 9 – Grand Stade de Tanger, Tangier
• Cameroon vs Morocco
Friday, January 9 – Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat
• Egypt vs Côte d’Ivoire
Saturday, January 10 – Stade Adrar, Agadir
• Nigeria vs Algeria
Saturday, January 10 – Stade de Marrakech, Ouahat Sidi Brahim
