By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, 13 January 2026 - As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations rolls into its final chapter in Morocco, African football’s elite have carved out two blockbuster semifinal showdowns that promise drama, skill, and national pride.
On Wednesday, Senegal battles Egypt in Tangier while Nigeria take on tournament hosts Morocco in Rabat, with both teams vying for a coveted spot in the 18 January 2026 final.
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is the premier football tournament on the continent, held every two years and traditionally showcasing Africa’s richest footballing talent and fiercest rivalries. Since its inception in 1957, the competition has crowned legends and produced unforgettable moments of joy and heartbreak.
Senegal vs Egypt: A Classic Clash Renewed
The first semifinal pits Senegal against Egypt in what is one of Africa’s most storied matchups. Senegal advanced to this stage by edging Mali 1–0, showcasing resilience and tactical maturity under coach Pape Bouna Thiaw. Meanwhile, Egypt stormed through to the semis with a thrilling 3–2 win over defending champions Ivory Coast, with captain Mohamed Salah continuing his fine tournament form.
This clash is rich with history. The two sides last met in the 2022 AFCON final, with Senegal lifting the trophy after a tense penalty shootout. The renewed rivalry sees both teams bring a blend of experience and rising talent, making for an unpredictable contest. Senegal’s squad boasts Premier League talent such as Sadio Mané, Iliman Ndiaye, and Nicolas Jackson, while Egypt relies on Salah’s leadership and a hardworking squad drawn largely from their domestic league, supplemented by dynamic performers like Omar Marmoush.
Beyond the star names, one of the compelling storylines is Senegal’s 17-year-old sensation Ibrahim Mbaye, whose blistering pace and technical ability off the bench have become a significant asset for the Teranga Lions. Mbaye’s rise encapsulates the youthful spark Senegal hopes will carry them deep into the tournament.
For Egypt, a victory would sustain their pursuit of a record-extending eighth AFCON title — a testament to their historic dominance in African football. For Senegal, it represents a chance to build on recent success and return to the continental stage’s biggest match.
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Nigeria vs Morocco: Power vs Home Pride
The evening’s second semifinal sees Nigeria face Morocco, a heavyweight clash between two of Africa’s most formidable sides. Nigeria arrived unbeaten, having scored 14 goals across five matches, underscored by a comfortable 2–0 quarter-final victory over Algeria. Led by talisman Victor Osimhen, the Super Eagles are not only prolific but confident, aiming for a fourth AFCON title and to extend their fine run in recent editions.
Opposing them are the hosts, Morocco, a team that has captured the hearts of millions with its defensive solidity and inspiring attacking play.
Morocco’s journey has been powered by Brahim Díaz, the Real Madrid attacker who has been in exceptional goal-scoring form throughout the tournament, and captain Achraf Hakimi, whose leadership has helped guide the Atlas Lions to this pivotal moment.
Playing on home soil gives Morocco an emotional edge. The roar of fans at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat and throughout the country has been a defining narrative of AFCON 2025. Having not won the tournament since 1976, the hosts are eager to rewrite history with a home-grown success story that ignites a new era of Moroccan football.
Both semifinals transcend the immediate prize of a place in the final. They represent national narratives: Senegal’s pursuit of sustained continental prominence, Egypt’s quest for historic supremacy, Nigeria’s journey for redemption and silverware, and Morocco’s dream of home-soil triumph. With all four teams led by African coaches, this edition also highlights the growing confidence in indigenous tactical leadership on the continent.
As Africa’s footballing giants prepare for battle, the stage is set for unforgettable nights of competition. On January 18, one nation will emerge champion, etching its name in AFCON folklore. Until then, the semifinals promise thrill after thrill, a true celebration of African football at its best
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