Morocco and Egypt lead North African charge to semi-finals

The semi-final line-up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations was confirmed Saturday night, setting up blockbuster clashes between Morocco and Nigeria, and Egypt and Senegal.

Hosts Morocco advanced with a commanding 2-0 victory over Cameroon in Rabat. Goals from Brahim Díaz and Ismaël Saibari secured the Atlas Lions' progression to a Wednesday semi-final against Nigeria at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

Egypt joined their North African neighbors by defeating defending champions Côte d'Ivoire 3-2 in a thrilling encounter in Agadir. 

Mohamed Salah was among the scorers as the seven-time champions ended the Ivorians' title defense despite a late fightback. Egypt will now face Senegal at the Grand Stade de Tanger.

Nigeria secured their place in the semi-finals with a 2-0 win over Algeria in Marrakech. Victor Osimhen opened the scoring early in the second half before Akor Adams sealed the victory, marking Nigeria's 16th AFCON semi-final appearance.

Senegal were the first team to reach the last four, defeating Mali 1-0 in an all-West African quarter-final. Iliman Ndiaye's first-half strike proved decisive as the Teranga Lions held firm.

Both semi-finals will be played Wednesday: Morocco faces Nigeria in Rabat, while Egypt takes on Senegal in Tangier. The final is scheduled for January 18 in Rabat.

The quarter-finals notably saw North African teams sweep aside West African opposition, with Morocco and Egypt both eliminating strong challengers to set up what promises to be a compelling final weekend.