AFCON trophy
Knockout stage of the 2025 CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco has burst into life, with the tournament entering its most decisive phase as teams battle for a place in the quarter-finals.
With the Round of 16 now in progress, early results have underlined both the quality of the traditional heavyweights and the razor-thin margins that define Africa’s biggest football spectacle. The shift to straight knockout football means there is no room for recovery, as one defeat is enough to bring a nation’s title hopes to a sudden end.
After an unpredictable group stage, the last-16 fixtures are beginning to draw a clear line between genuine title contenders and those forced to exit the competition.
So far, six teams have successfully navigated this demanding stage to book their spots in the quarter-finals, each taking a different route but sharing the same ambition of continental glory.
Senegal led the way, maintaining their unbeaten run with a composed victory over Sudan that reaffirmed their status as one of the tournament favourites. Mali followed, producing a spirited performance to eliminate Tunisia on penalties despite playing for long periods with ten men.
Tournament hosts Morocco also moved into the last eight on Sunday, recording a narrow but assured 1–0 win over Tanzania in Rabat, with Brahim Díaz providing the decisive moment. Cameroon later joined the list after edging South Africa 2–1 in a tense encounter that once again showcased their knockout experience.
On Monday, Egypt booked their passage after overcoming Benin 3–1 in extra time, with Mohamed Salah sealing the win with a goal at the very end of the contest. Nigeria completed the day’s action in emphatic style, dismantling Mozambique 4–0 as Victor Osimhen struck twice to inspire the Super Eagles.
Attention now turns to Tuesday’s remaining Round of 16 clashes, with Algeria set to face DR Congo, while defending champions Côte d’Ivoire take on Burkina Faso. The results will complete the quarter-final line-up and further shape the path to the final.
The AFCON 2025 quarter-finals are scheduled for January 9 and January 10, with the final to be played on January 18 at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat.
Teams through to the AFCON 2025 quarter-finals so far:
Senegal, Mali, Morocco, Cameroon, Egypt, Nigeria.
*Confirmed quarter-final fixtures*:
Mali vs Senegal – Friday, January 9
Cameroon vs Morocco – Friday, January 9
The remaining quarter-final match-ups will be confirmed once the outstanding Round of 16 fixtures are concluded.
