AFCON 2025: Nigeria And Egypt March Into The Semi-Finals

Saturday’s action in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 delivered everything a football fan could hope for, from dominant performances to edge-of-Your-seat finishes, and two teams booking their ticket to the semi-finals of Africa’s premier football championship.

Here’s how the drama unfolded on 10 January 2026.

Super Eagles Soar: Nigeria 2–0 Algeria

The Super Eagles of Nigeria stamped their authority on the quarter-final stage with a comprehensive 2–0 victory over Algeria in Marrakech. After a tense first half that saw chances come and go, Nigeria exploded right after the break.

Victor Osimhen opened the scoring with a powerful header early in the second half, converting a precise delivery that split the Algerian defence. Minutes later, Akor Adams put the game beyond doubt with a calm finish after a superb assist from Osimhen, a moment of clinical finishing that sealed Nigeria’s semifinal berth.

The Eagles dominated possession and territory, proving superior in every department, particularly in attacking transitions and pressing intensity. Algeria struggled to mount a meaningful response, managing few clear sights of goal, and ultimately bowed out without seriously irritating Nigeria’s resolute back line.

Highlight: Another strong display from Osimhen cemented his role as one of Africa’s most lethal attackers this tournament.

Pharaohs Edge A Thriller: Egypt 3–2 Ivory Coast

If the Nigeria game was clinical and controlled, the Egypt vs Ivory Coast showdown in Agadir was pure entertainment, a rollercoaster battle that pitted two African football giants against one another.

From the first whistle, Egypt seized the initiative. Within minutes, Omar Marmoush fired the Pharaohs ahead with a low, incisive strike, a goal that set the tone for a frantic affair. Ramy Rabia doubled the lead with a towering header to make it 2–0, and Egypt looked firmly in command.

However, Ivory Coast refused to roll over. A freak own goal by Egypt’s defender Ahmed Fatouh brought the score back to 2–1, infusing fresh hope into the defending champions’ campaign. Despite the setback, Egypt regained rhythm when Mohamed Salah netted a vital third, showcasing his trademark composure under pressure.

The Elephants rallied once more, with Guela Doué scoring to make it 3–2 and send fans roaring. Though time ran out before another equaliser could arrive, this match proved to be one of the most thrilling encounters of the tournament so far.

Key takeaway: Egypt’s ability to score early and keep belief alive under pressure was crucial, and Salah’s leadership again proved decisive.

Tactical Notes & What This Means

Nigeria’s Blueprint

Nigeria’s win highlighted their balance, attacking potency backed by disciplined structure. Osimhen’s aerial threat and the intelligent link-up play from midfield created meaningful overloads, while the defence wasn’t seriously tested. Their next challenge will be a tough semifinal tie against hosts Morocco, a side buoyed by home support and tactical depth.

Egypt’s Heart & Grit

Egypt’s quarter-final contest was a testament to tenacity. Against a defending champion side packed with talent, they showed belief even when conceding. Their creative movement in the final third gave them the slight edge in what was ultimately a five-goal spectacle.

Semi-Final Picture

With Nigeria and Egypt joining Morocco and Senegal in the final four, AFCON’s title race is shaping up for a thrilling conclusion, one that promises a blend of home advantage, attacking flair, and seasoned experience.

The AFCON semi-finals are set to take place later this week, and fans across the continent are already speculating on potential finals match-ups. With such high-quality teams left standing, every remaining match feels like a final in its own right.

Stay tuned for more updates as the road to the AFCON crown intensifies. Let the countdown to glory continue!