Four matches, eight giants and one goal: a spot in the Africa Cup of Nations semifinals. The quarterfinals, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, promise African fans a concentrated dose of skill, history, and rivalry.
Over the past twenty years, nine out of ten continental titles have been claimed by teams that reached the quarterfinal stage of this 35th edition. Only Hervé Renard’s Zambia defied expectations in 2012. Except for Mali, all the other teams have already lifted the ultimate prize.
Each match, then, feels like a final before the final, where the reality on the pitch matters more than any calculation.
Senegal, led by Sadio Mané, kicks things off on Friday at 5:00 p.m. against Mali, in a duel of neighbors whose paths often cross. The Malian Eagles, still chasing continental glory, face the Lions of Teranga, now established as a reference point in African football.
Between Mali’s fiery energy and Senegal’s composed mastery, the balance is fragile, and the tension is palpable in a game played as much in the legs as in the mind.
Three hours later, at 8:00 p.m., comes a classic showdown: Morocco vs. Cameroon, two continental giants, two rich histories and distinct identities.
On one side, the instinct and pride of the Indomitable Lions, backed by a demanding legacy. On the other, the methodical ambition and disciplined approach of the Atlas Lions, who have become a model of consistency and international projection in recent years.
On Saturday at 5:00 p.m., Algeria meets Nigeria. A clash of styles: the technically precise and structured Fennecs versus the powerful, athletic Super Eagles, capable of decisive bursts of offensive freedom.
Finally, at 8:00 p.m., Egypt faces Ivory Coast, in a meeting steeped in history. The Pharaohs, record-holders for continental titles, take on the Elephants, reigning champions and perennial contenders with a sometimes cruel destiny. A confrontation heavy with symbolism, legacy, and generations.
At this stage of the competition, calculations and statistics fade away. There’s no room for illusions: only accuracy, discipline, and efficiency will allow teams to advance to the semifinals.
