🇲🇦 Host Nation Morocco Advances to the Semi-Finals
Morocco, co-hosts of the tournament, booked their place in the AFCON semi-finals with a 2-0 quarter-final win over Cameroon.
- Brahim Díaz continued his sensational scoring form, netting his fifth goal in five matches, a new Moroccan tournament record.
- Ismael Saibari added the second goal to seal the win for the Atlas Lions in front of passionate home support.
- Morocco have impressed defensively too — still yet to concede from open play in the tournament. (Reuters)
🇸🇳 Senegal Join Morocco in the Last Four
Senegal won a tight contest against Mali to reach the semi-finals:
- A 1-0 victory courtesy of Iliman Ndiaye’s goal put the Lions of Teranga through.
- Mali’s Yves Bissouma was sent off in the first half, compounding their challenge.
- Senegal will now await their next opponent, likely Egypt or Ivory Coast, depending on the outcome of their upcoming clash. (Reuters)
🇪🇬 Egypt vs Ivory Coast – Quarter-Final Set to Be a Big Clash
Ahead of their quarter-final tie, Ivory Coast coach Emerse Fae has spoken candidly about the challenge posed by Egypt, who advanced after a comeback win in the Round of 16.
- He referenced the painful 2006 AFCON final loss to Egypt as motivation for his team.
- Egypt, with stars like Mohamed Salah, will test the Ivorians’ title ambitions. (Reuters)
📊 Tournament Snapshot
- The 35th edition of AFCON is hosted by Morocco, with matches taking place across multiple cities, culminating in a final on 18 January 2026 in Rabat. (Wikipedia)
- 24 nations started the competition, with knockout football now in full swing as only four teams remain. (Wikipedia)
🔑 Key Storylines & Player Highlights
⭐ Brahim Díaz’s Remarkable Run
Morocco’s star forward has been the tournament’s top scorer, leading the hosts with consistently decisive goals — including in both group and knockout rounds. (beIN SPORTS)
📌 Senegal’s Continued Consistency
Senegal’s progression to the semis marks their third semi-final appearance in the last four editions, underlining their status as a continent powerhouse. (Reuters)
💥 Red Cards and Match-Turning Moments
The quarter-final between Senegal and Mali saw a crucial red card for Mali’s Yves Bissouma — a significant setback for the West Africans. (Reuters)
📅 Road Ahead
Here’s how the final week of AFCON is shaping up:
- 🗓 Semi-finals: Morocco and Senegal are confirmed; Egypt vs Ivory Coast set to complete the lineup.