Category: Football

In a dramatic and tightly contested semi-final at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Rabat, host nation Morocco edged Nigeria in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw through regulation and extra time, booking their place in the final against Senegal.

The clash at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah lived up to its billing as one of the tournament’s biggest fixtures, with both sides showing tactical awareness and defensive resilience in front of a packed home crowd. 

Neither team managed to break the deadlock over 120 minutes of intense football. Morocco, driven by a vocal home support and the creative influence of Brahim Díaz, pressed for openings, but the Super Eagles’ defence stood firm for long periods. Nigeria, unbeaten in the competition leading into this match, struggled to carve out meaningful goal-scoring opportunities against a well-organised Moroccan rearguard. 

The match was marked by robust challenges, cautious tactical play, and moments of individual skill, but the scoreboard remained untouched through both 90 minutes and extra time. 

With the scoreline still 0–0 after extra time, the semi-final was decided by penalties. In a tense shootout, Morocco held their nerve to prevail and eliminate Nigeria from the competition. The decisive moments came as both teams traded successful spot-kicks and critical saves, ultimately tipping the balance in favour of the Atlas Lions.

Morocco’s victory ended Nigeria’s bid for an AFCON title this year and propelled the hosts into the final, where they will meet Senegal, who advanced by beating Egypt in the other semi-final. Morocco are now one win away from lifting their first Africa Cup of Nations trophy since 1976, a feat that would cement a historic achievement on home soil. 

For Nigeria, the narrow defeat brings an end to a strong tournament run, one that saw them go undefeated through the group stage and score freely in earlier rounds but falls just short of another final appearance. 

In a fiercely contested Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 semi-final in Tangier, Senegal defeated Egypt to secure their place in the tournament final. The clash between two African football powerhouses delivered drama, tactical discipline, and a moment of individual brilliance that decided the match.

Senegal progressed to the AFCON final with a narrow victory over Egypt, winning 1–0 in a game largely defined by strong defensive organisation and moments of attacking incisiveness. The decisive score came from Senegalese skipper Sadio Mané, who struck late in the second half to separate the sides and send the Lions of Teranga through to the title match. 

While Egypt fought hard throughout the match, they were unable to break down Senegal’s defence or find the crucial goal that would have kept their continental dreams alive. Despite creating opportunities, the Pharaohs struggled to convert them into clear scoring chances, ultimately falling short against a resolute Senegal side. 

The headline narrative of the match was the renewal of the rivalry between Sadio Mané and Mohamed Salah two of Africa’s most iconic footballers who previously faced off in major AFCON knockout ties, including the dramatic 2021 final. 

Mané’s decisive intervention not only put Senegal ahead but also highlighted his continued importance in big games for his nation. For Egypt, Mohamed Salah remained a focal point of attack, but even his influence wasn’t enough to overturn Senegal’s narrow advantage.

Senegal’s approach showcased tactical discipline and defensive solidity, frustrating Egypt’s attempts to gain control in midfield. The team managed to absorb pressure at key moments while remaining dangerous on transition; a blend that proved effective in a match where chances were limited. 

The 2026 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final stage came to a dramatic conclusion on Saturday as Nigeria and Egypt booked their places in the semifinals, completing a final four that blends pedigree, pressure, and title ambition.

Following earlier victories by Senegal and Morocco, Saturday’s fixtures delivered intensity and decisive moments, confirming the tournament’s most competitive phase yet.

Nigeria Outclass Algeria to Reach the Semi-Finals

Nigeria confirmed their status as one of the tournament’s strongest sides with a composed 2–0 win over Algeria, producing a disciplined and controlled performance in Marrakech.

After a measured first half, the Super Eagles raised the tempo following the break. Victor Osimhen broke the deadlock shortly after halftime, powering home a header to give Nigeria a deserved lead. The striker later turned provider, setting up Akor Adams to double the advantage and seal the result.

Algeria struggled to break Nigeria’s structure as the Super Eagles managed the game expertly, limiting clear chances and seeing out the contest with confidence. The victory sets up a high-profile semi-final clash against host nation Morocco.

Egypt Edge Ivory Coast in Five-Goal Thriller

In a tightly contested encounter, Egypt defeated Ivory Coast 3–2 to secure the final semi-final spot and keep their AFCON title hopes alive.

The Pharaohs made a blistering start, opening the scoring through Omar Marmoush (4’). Rami Rabia (32’) extended Egypt’s lead before Ivory Coast found a route back into the game when Ahmed Fotouh inadvertently turned the ball into his own net in the 40th minute.

Early in the second half, Mohamed Salah (52’) restored Egypt’s two-goal cushion with a clinical finish, underlining his influence on the big stage. Ivory Coast responded through Guéla Doué (73’), setting up a tense finale, but Egypt held firm to claim a famous victory.

The result sends Egypt into a heavyweight semi-final showdown against Senegal.

AFCON 2026 Quarter-Final Results

• Senegal 1–0 Mali
• Morocco 2–0 Cameroon
• Nigeria 2–0 Algeria
• Egypt 3–2 Ivory Coast

Confirmed AFCON 2026 Semi-Final Fixtures

• Morocco vs Nigeria
• Senegal vs Egypt

For the first time in history, FIFA has partnered with TikTok to bring official World Cup 2026 content directly to fans on a social media platform. The landmark deal, which names TikTok as FIFA’s first-ever Preferred Platform for video content, promises a mix of live match clips, highlights, behind the scenes access, and interactive fan features.

This move signals a major shift in how football fans engage with the world’s biggest sporting event, blending traditional broadcasting with digital-first experiences tailored for mobile and social audiences.

What the FIFA-TikTok Deal Means

The agreement between FIFA and TikTok is designed to expand the reach of the World Cup to millions of digital-native fans around the world. Here’s what the deal offers:

• Live Match Clips: TikTok will stream segments of official matches via a dedicated World Cup hub inside the app. Fans can catch real-time action without waiting for TV highlights.
• Curated Highlights: Quick, shareable clips of goals, saves, and major moments will be easily accessible.
• Behind-the-Scenes Access: Selected TikTok creators will provide coverage of press conferences, training sessions, and exclusive off-field content.
• Interactive Features: Stickers, filters, and fan challenges will make following the tournament more engaging than ever.

Note: TikTok will not broadcast full 90-minute matches. Traditional TV and official streaming partners retain full-match rights.

The TikTok World Cup Hub: Your New Digital Stadium

Central to this deal is the FIFA World Cup 2026 hub on TikTok, which serves as a one-stop destination for fans:

• Live match segments and highlights
• Match schedules and updates
• Official FIFA creator content
• Fan engagement tools and interactive features

This hub transforms TikTok into a digital stadium, giving fans a unique way to stay connected with the World Cup in real time.

Fans will now be able to experience World Cup 2026 content in ways never possible before. With live clips, highlights, exclusive behind-the-scenes moments, and interactive features all available on TikTok, FIFA is bridging the gap between traditional broadcasting and the digital-first generation.

While TikTok does not replace full-match coverage, this record deal marks a historic shift in football media  and could redefine how fans engage with the World Cup forever.

The 2026 Africa Cup of Nations quarter‑finals kicked off in Morocco with two captivating clashes that set the tone for a thrilling final eight of Africa’s most prestigious football tournament. Hostilities began with Senegal vs Mali in Tangier before the spotlight shifted to Cameroon vs Morocco in Rabat.

Senegal vs Mali

The first quarter‑final saw Senegal secure a 1‑0 win over Mali in Tangier, booking their place in the semi‑finals with a performance defined by tactical discipline and clinical finishing. 

It was Iliman Ndiaye who provided the game’s decisive moment, capitalising on a defensive lapse and firing Senegal ahead in the first half. Despite intense second‑half pressure from Mali, the Lions of Teranga showcased composed defending and match management to see out the victory. 

Mali’s efforts were further hampered when captain Yves Bissouma received a second yellow card (Red Card) shortly before halftime, forcing his side to battle with ten men for the entire second half. 

Senegal’s win not only extends their impressive knockout run but also highlights their status as one of the tournament favourites, combining defensive power with moment‑making talent. Their reward is a semi‑final clash with the winner of Egypt vs Ivory Coast. 

Morocco vs Cameroon

In Rabat, the host nation Morocco displayed a blend of stylistic control and attacking intent to defeat Cameroon 2‑0 and take a commanding position in the race for the AFCON crown. 

The opening goal arrived in the 26th minute through Brahim Diaz, whose composed finish gave the Atlas Lions an early edge. Morocco maintained pressure throughout the first half and extended their lead deep into the second with a well‑timed strike from Ismael Saibari. 

Cameroon, known for their physicality and intensity, struggled to consistently break the Moroccan defensive lines. Morocco’s substitutions, bringing on experience and fresh legs helped manage the game while keeping possession control and limiting clear chances for the opposition. 

The result sends Morocco, also one of the tournament favourites  into the semi‑finals, fuelling hopes of lifting the trophy on home soil for the first time since 1976. 

Meanwhile, Nigeria vs Algeria and Egypt vs Ivory Coast are set to decide the remaining semi‑finalists on Saturday, January 10, with each team bringing distinct strengths and narrative intrigue ahead of crucial knockout football. 

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 has reached its business end, with CAF officially confirming the quarter-final fixtures following the conclusion of the Round of 16 matches in Morocco.

The last eight features some of Africa’s biggest footballing nations, setting the stage for a series of high-stakes encounters as teams battle for a place in the semi-finals.

AFCON 2025 Quarter-Final Fixtures

Friday, January 9, 2026

• Mali vs Senegal – Grand Stade de Tangier
• Cameroon vs Morocco – Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah, Rabat

Saturday, January 10, 2026

• Algeria vs Nigeria – Stade de Marrakech
• Egypt vs Côte d’Ivoire – Stade Adrar, Agadir

The quarter-finals deliver several classic African football rivalries and high-profile matchups.

West African neighbours Mali and Senegal face off in what promises to be a tightly contested encounter, with both sides showing tactical discipline and defensive solidity throughout the tournament.

Hosts Morocco will rely on home support as they take on five-time champions Cameroon, a team known for thriving under pressure in knockout stages.

One of the standout ties sees Nigeria square off against Algeria, a clash between two continental heavyweights with rich AFCON histories. Both teams come into the game with strong momentum after convincing Round of 16 performances.

Meanwhile, Egypt meet Côte d’Ivoire in a fixture that pits AFCON’s most successful nation against the former champions, adding extra weight to an already high-profile contest.

With no clear favourites remaining, AFCON 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive editions in recent years. The winners of these fixtures will advance to the semi-finals, keeping their hopes of continental glory firmly alive.

Ivory Coast booked their place in the AFCON 2025 quarterfinals with a convincing 3–0 victory over Burkina Faso, delivering one of their most complete performances of the knockout stage.

The Elephants set the tone early and never relinquished control, combining attacking precision with defensive discipline to overwhelm their West African rivals.

Ivory Coast 3–0 Burkina Faso

Ivory Coast opened the scoring in the 20th minute when A. Diallo finished clinically to give his side an early advantage.

Momentum stayed firmly with the hosts, and just 12 minutes later, Y. Diomande doubled the lead in the 32nd minute, capitalising on sustained pressure to leave Burkina Faso chasing the game before halftime.

Burkina Faso struggled to find a response in the second half as Ivory Coast managed the contest effectively. Any remaining doubt was put to rest late on when B. Touré struck in the 87th minute, sealing a dominant win and confirming progression into the quarterfinals.

Match Summary

Ivory Coast 3–0 Burkina Faso

Goals:

• A. Diallo (20′)
• Y. Diomande (32′)
• B. Touré (87′)

AFCON 2025 Quarterfinalists So Far

With January 6 action completed, the confirmed teams in the last eight include:

• Senegal
• Mali
• Morocco
• Cameroon
• Egypt
• Nigeria
• Ivory Coast

The remaining Round of 16 fixture(s) will determine the final quarterfinal lineup.

The Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16 delivered contrasting narratives as Egypt edged past Benin after extra time, while Nigeria produced a commanding display to dismantle Mozambique, sealing their place in the quarterfinals.

Egypt 3–1 Benin

Egypt booked their quarterfinal spot after a dramatic 3–1 extra-time victory over Benin in Agadir.

The breakthrough arrived in the 69th minute when Marwan Attia struck from distance, but Benin responded late through Jodel Dossou’s 83rd-minute equaliser, forcing extra time.

In the additional period, Egypt’s experience proved decisive. Yasser Ibrahim restored the lead in the 97th minute, before Mohamed Salah sealed the win in the 124th minute, ending Benin’s resistance.

Final Score:

• Egypt 3–1 Benin (after extra time)

• Goals: Attia (69′), Ibrahim (97′), Salah (124′); Dossou (83′)

Nigeria 4–0 Mozambique

Nigeria delivered one of the most emphatic performances of the knockout stage, defeating Mozambique 4–0 to book their place in the AFCON quarterfinals.

The Super Eagles set the tone early when Ademola Lookman opened the scoring in the 20th minute. Just five minutes later, Victor Osimhen doubled Nigeria’s advantage, finishing clinically to put Mozambique under severe pressure.

Osimhen struck again shortly after the restart in the 47th minute, effectively ending the contest. Nigeria continued to dominate and were rewarded once more when A. Adams added a fourth goal in the 75th minute, completing a comprehensive victory.

Final Score:

• Nigeria 4–0 Mozambique

• Goals: A. Lookman (20′), V. Osimhen (25′, 47′), A. Adams (75′)

AFCON 2025 Quarterfinalists So Far

With Round of 16 matches now concluded up to January 5, the following teams have secured quarterfinal places:

• Senegal
• Mali
• Morocco
• Cameroon
• Egypt
• Nigeria

The remaining Round of 16 fixtures will determine the final spots as the tournament heads deeper into its decisive phase.

The Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16 continued with decisive wins for Morocco and Cameroon, as the quarterfinal lineup took clearer shape.

Morocco 1–0 Tanzania: Díaz Sends Hosts Through to the Quarterfinals

Hosts Morocco secured a place in the AFCON quarterfinals with a narrow 1–0 victory over Tanzania.

After a controlled first half, Brahim Díaz scored the decisive goal in the 64th minute, breaking the deadlock and settling the contest. Morocco managed the game well thereafter, limiting Tanzania’s chances and seeing out the win in front of home supporters.

Final Score:

• Morocco 1–0 Tanzania

• Goal: Brahim Díaz (64′)

Cameroon 2–1 South Africa: Early Strikes Seal Progress

Cameroon booked their quarterfinal spot after a 2–1 win over South Africa in a tightly contested Round of 16 encounter.

The Indomitable Lions took control of the match with goals in each half. Jean Tchamadeu opened the scoring in the 34th minute, before Carlos Kofane doubled Cameroon’s lead shortly after the break in the 47th minute.

South Africa pushed late and were rewarded when Evidence Makgopa pulled one back in the 88th minute, but Cameroon held firm in the closing moments to secure progression.

Final Score:

• South Africa 1–2 Cameroon

• Cameroon: J. Tchamadeu (34′), C. Kofane (47′)
• South Africa: E. Makgopa (88′)

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Round of 16 delivered drama, resilience, and late twists as Senegal and Mali secured quarterfinal spots in two contrasting knockout encounters.

Senegal 3–1 Sudan

Senegal booked their place in the AFCON quarterfinals with a confident 3–1 victory over Sudan.

Sudan stunned the Senegal early when Aamir Abdallah opened the scoring, but Senegal responded with authority. Pape Gueye struck twice before halftime to swing momentum firmly in Senegal’s favour, showcasing the team’s midfield dominance.

In the second half, teenage substitute Ibrahima Mbaye added a third goal to seal the result and underline Senegal’s squad depth. The Lions of Teranga now move on with growing confidence as the knockout stages intensify.

Final Score:

• Senegal 3–1 Sudan
• Goals: Gueye (2), Mbaye; Abdallah (Sudan)

Mali vs Tunisia

Late Drama Ends in Penalty Shootout Victory for Mali. 

The second Round of 16 clash between Mali and Tunisia proved to be one of the most dramatic matches of the tournament.

Mali were forced to play most of the game with 10 men after an early red card, yet defended with discipline and determination. Tunisia finally broke the deadlock late in regulation time when Firas Chaouat scored in the 88th minute, seemingly sending the Carthage Eagles through.

However, Mali refused to fold. Deep into stoppage time, Lassine Sinayoko converted a crucial penalty, dragging the match into extra time.

With neither side able to find a winner after 120 minutes, the contest went to penalties. Mali held their nerve in the shootout, overcoming Tunisia to claim a memorable victory and book their place in the quarterfinals.

Final Result:

• Mali 1–1 Tunisia (after extra time)
• Mali win on a tense penalty shootout.