Africa Cup of Nations Games Heat Up as AFCON 2025 Reaches Crucial Quarter-Final Stage

Africa’s Premier Football Tournament Captivates Millions

The Africa Cup of Nations games have taken centre stage as the continent’s finest football teams battle for glory in Morocco. The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 takes place in Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, marking a historic moment as it is the first time that the tournament is played over the Christmas and New Year period. The 35th edition of this prestigious biennial competition has already delivered spectacular matches, with 112 goals scored in 46 matches, for an average of 2.43 goals per match as of 9 January 2026.

Quarter-Finals Showcase Football’s Best

The tournament has reached its most thrilling phase, with eight elite teams competing in the quarter-finals. Goals in either half from Brahim Díaz and Ismael Saibari gave the hosts a 2-0 victory over Cameroon in Rabat to secure their place in the AFCON last four for the first time since 2004. The quarter-final matches are scheduled for 9-10 January 2026, with the semi-finals to follow on 13 January. Eight of the top 10 African nations are through: Senegal, Mali, Morocco, Cameroon, Egypt, Nigeria, Algeria, Ivory Coast, setting up blockbuster encounters.

Tournament Structure and Significance

Twenty-four of Africa’s men’s national football teams are competing in the 2025 CAF Africa Cup of Nations, taking place in Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026. The 35th edition of the biennial tournament is being hosted across nine venues in six cities. The competition format sees teams progress through group stages before entering knockout rounds. The winners will receive US$10 million, an increase from US$7 million for the 2023 event, highlighting the growing prestige of Africa Cup of Nations games.

Looking Ahead: Final Showdown Approaches

As the tournament progresses towards its climax, the tournament concludes with the final in Rabat on 18 January, when the champions will be crowned. Reigning champions Ivory Coast are right up there, while hosts Morocco are the heavy favorites after their run to the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup. The Africa Cup of Nations games continue to showcase the continent’s extraordinary football talent, with millions of fans worldwide following every dramatic moment. This tournament represents more than sport—it celebrates African unity, culture, and the universal passion for football that connects the entire continent.