AFCON 2025: Nigeria and Egypt book semifinal spots after dominant quarterfinal wins

January 12, 2026

Nigeria and Egypt have both secured places in the semifinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following convincing quarterfinal victories on Saturday. The wins set up high-stakes clashes with Senegal and Morocco, respectively, as the tournament moves into its final four.

At Marrakech Stadium, Nigeria edged past Algeria with a 2-0 win in a disciplined performance that highlighted their tactical organization. Victor Osimhen, the Super Eagles’ talisman, opened the scoring in the 47th minute, slotting home a precise finish after a slick team move.

Akor Adams added a second ten minutes later, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to put the result beyond Algeria’s reach. Despite Algeria committing more players forward in search of a comeback, Nigeria’s defense remained compact and resolute, frustrating any attacking momentum.

Meanwhile, at Adrar Stadium in Agadir, Egypt overcame Cote d’Ivoire 3-2 in a pulsating encounter. Omar Marmoush gave the Pharaohs an early advantage in the fourth minute, followed by Ramy Rabia’s strike in the 32nd. Cote d’Ivoire briefly threatened to level matters when Ahmed Fatouh inadvertently scored an own goal in the 40th minute.

However, Mohamed Salah’s clinical finish in the 52nd minute restored Egypt’s two-goal cushion. Guela Doue added a late consolation for the Ivorians in the 73rd minute, but it was not enough to prevent Egypt from advancing.

The semifinal fixtures are now set: Nigeria will take on host nation Morocco at Stade de Marrakech, while Egypt faces Senegal at Adrar Stadium. Both matches promise to be highly competitive as the continent’s top sides vie for a place in the AFCON 2025 final.

Nigeria and Egypt’s quarterfinal performances underscore the strength of West African football this year, with both sides displaying attacking fluidity and defensive discipline. Fans can expect high drama in the semifinals as teams battle not only for glory but also for a shot at continental supremacy.