AFCON 2025: Egypt vs Ivory Coast headline tantalising quarter final match ups

The quarter-final line-up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco has been finalised, setting the stage for a series of high-stakes clashes as the continent’s premier football tournament reaches its critical phase.

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Among the last eight are defending champions Ivory Coast and record seven-time winners Egypt, joined by former champions and perennial contenders Senegal, Cameroon, Nigeria, and Algeria, alongside ambitious Mali and hosts Morocco.

The eight teams secured their spots following Tuesday night’s thrilling Round of 16 fixtures, highlighting why AFCON continues to deliver some of the continent’s most captivating football.

Egypt, the most decorated nation in AFCON history, booked their quarter-final place with a hard-fought extra-time win over Benin, while holders Ivory Coast maintained their title defence with a convincing 3-0 triumph over Burkina Faso.

Hosts Morocco, drawing on home support and their historic status as the first African nation to reach a FIFA World Cup semi-final, edged past Tanzania to advance.

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Senegal, winners in 2021, continued their run of consistency with a win over Sudan, while Mali showcased their resilience by defeating Tunisia on penalties despite playing much of the match with ten men.

Nigeria impressed with an attacking masterclass against Mozambique, powered by a brace from Victor Osimhen, while Algeria overcame DR Congo in extra time, thanks to a late goal from substitute Adil Boulbina.

The quarter-finals feature several marquee matchups. Egypt, the continent’s most successful nation, will clash with defending champions Côte d’Ivoire on Saturday in a blockbuster showdown.

Hosts Morocco face a stern test against five-time African champions Cameroon on Friday, promising a fiercely competitive encounter.

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An all-West African battle sees Senegal take on a resilient Mali side in Friday’s opening game, while Nigeria will meet Algeria in the first match on Saturday, creating another heavyweight contest.

The quarter-finals promise thrilling action as the competition moves closer to its climax, with winners advancing to the semi-finals in Morocco and the race for continental glory heating up.

AFCON 2025 quarter-final fixtures

Friday, 9 January

Mali vs Senegal — 7 pm

Cameroon vs Morocco — 10 pm

Saturday, 10 January

Algeria vs Nigeria — 7 pm

Egypt vs Ivory Coast — 10 pm

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