Rabat, Morocco: The Africa Cup of Nations returns today, Friday, January 9, as the tournament enters the quarterfinal stage, with Africa’s football heavyweights set for blockbuster knockout clashes expected to grip the continent.
The opening quarterfinal pits reigning champions Senegal against Mali in a fierce West African derby. Senegal’s Lions of Teranga have looked composed and confident so far, but they face a disciplined and hungry Mali side still chasing a first-ever AFCON title after repeatedly knocking on the door in recent editions.
Later on in the day, hosts Morocco take on five-time champions Cameroon in what many have dubbed an early final. Backed by passionate home support, Morocco’s Atlas Lions will bank on technical quality and tactical structure, while Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions bring vast tournament pedigree and a reputation for thriving under knockout pressure.
Saturday’s fixtures are equally mouth-watering. Record seven-time champions Egypt face Côte d’Ivoire, the defending champions, in a heavyweight showdown between two of Africa’s most decorated football nations.
In the other quarterfinal, Nigeria lock horns with Algeria in a clash of continental powerhouses, with both sides eyeing the tie as a decisive step toward lifting the trophy.
The quarterfinal lineup underscores the depth of quality left in the competition. The eight remaining teams have collectively won the Africa Cup of Nations 22 times. Seven are former champions, with Mali the only side still seeking a maiden continental crown.
All six group winners—Morocco, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, Egypt, Algeria and Nigeria—advanced directly to the quarterfinals, underlining their dominance in the group stage. Cameroon and Mali progressed after finishing second in their respective groups, while all best third-placed teams were eliminated in the Round of 16.
In the previous round, Mali edged Tunisia on penalties, Egypt required extra time to advance, Nigeria registered an emphatic victory, Algeria relied on late drama, while Morocco and Côte d’Ivoire survived tense encounters under sustained pressure.
AFCON Titles Among Quarterfinalists
Egypt – 7, Cameroon – 5, Côte d’Ivoire – 3, Nigeria – 3, Algeria – 2, Senegal – 1, Morocco – 1. Only Mali has yet to win the continental crown among the last 8.
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