AFCON semifinals prediction, four giants chase glory
Tournament reaches breaking point
After a thrilling set of quarterfinals, the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations now moves into its decisive phase. Only four teams remain, and all of them believe they can lift the trophy. Senegal face Egypt in Tangier, while hosts Morocco meet an in-form Nigeria side in what promises to be two heavyweight semifinals.
With experience, star power and pressure all colliding, AFCON is ready to deliver drama.
Senegal vs Egypt is more than Salah vs Mané
Much of the attention will fall on Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané, two icons of African football whose careers have been intertwined for more than a decade. Their last AFCON meeting came in the 2021 final, when Mané lifted the trophy and Salah was left waiting for his defining international moment.
Salah has carried Egypt once again. He has not dominated games, but he has delivered when it mattered, scoring crucial goals in tight knockout matches. Alongside him, Omar Marmoush has provided pace and unpredictability, giving Egypt real threat on the break.
Senegal, however, look the more complete side. Their squad is deeper, their midfield stronger and their attack more varied. Mané has shifted into a creative role, while players like Nicolas Jackson and Ismaïla Sarr give them multiple ways to hurt opponents. If Senegal start quickly, they should have enough to reach another final.
Nigeria momentum meets Moroccan pressure
Nigeria arrive in the semifinal as arguably the most convincing team in the tournament. After a slow start, Eric Chelle’s side have grown stronger with every match. They are the tournament’s top scorers and have found the perfect balance between power, pace and discipline.
Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman have formed a devastating partnership, while Nigeria’s defence has looked far more secure in the knockout rounds. Confidence is high, and belief is growing.
Morocco, by contrast, have struggled to fully convince despite home advantage. Injuries have disrupted their rhythm, and expectations from the stands remain intense. Brahim Díaz has been outstanding, scoring in every match so far, but pressure continues to follow the hosts.
If Morocco score first, the atmosphere could carry them through. If Nigeria strike early, nerves inside the stadium may quickly surface. This semifinal feels like a moment that could swing either way, but Nigeria’s momentum may prove decisive.
