The 2025 African Cup of Nations Semi-Finals: Who Has the Best Chance to Win?
The 2025 African Cup of Nations has reached the semi-final stage, and excitement is building ahead of two thrilling matches next Wednesday. As the hosts Morocco prepare to face Nigeria, and Senegal take on Egypt, fans and pundits alike are debating which of these final four contenders is most likely to lift the trophy. This year’s tournament in Morocco has showcased memorable moments and intense competition, and now we rank the quartet based on their form, squad strength, and upcoming fixtures.
4. Egypt: The Unpredictable Contenders
Egypt have a reputation for being effective but sometimes laborious in major tournaments, and AFCON 2025 was no different until their quarter-final victory over Ivory Coast jolted them into life. That 3-2 thriller showed a new attacking verve after earlier performances that edged on the tedious. Their group stage win against South Africa came courtesy of a controversial penalty, while they needed extra time to see off Benin in the round of 16.
The Pharaohs’ talisman remains Mohamed Salah, who has already netted four goals in the competition, sparking flashes of brilliance. His partnership with Omar Marmoush has been encouraging, demonstrating more dynamism up front. Meanwhile, a strong foundation of domestically-based players continues to solidify Egypt’s competitiveness. Facing Senegal in the semi-final, Egypt are underdogs but their resilience means they can’t be counted out. The rematch of the 2022 final promises to be a gripping encounter.
3. Nigeria: A Fierce Force to Reckon With
Nigeria entered this tournament with something to prove after missing out on a second consecutive World Cup. The Super Eagles have certainly risen to the occasion, overturning their tendency to self-sabotage with an impressive run. Notably, Nigeria have scored 14 goals in just five matches, breaking from the more cautious tactics traditionally favored.
Despite on-field drama—such as the spat between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman during the last 16—Nigeria has maintained impressive composure. Their quarter-final win against Algeria was emphatic, showcasing their attacking prowess. While Morocco, the hosts, are favorites in the semi-final, Nigeria’s frontline arguably stands as the most potent in Africa. With a blend of firepower and hunger, Nigeria can exploit any nervousness in Rabat.
2. Senegal: The Continent’s Powerhouse
Senegal arguably boasts the most talented African squad since the Ivory Coast’s Golden Generation. With stalwarts like Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly leading the charge, supported by younger stars Nicolas Jackson, Iliman Ndiaye, Ismaila Sarr, and others, their talent pool runs deep.
While Senegal’s AFCON campaign hasn’t been dazzling—particularly due to some midfield imbalance—they’ve rarely needed brilliance against less challenging teams. Their semi-final clash with Egypt revisits the 2022 AFCON final, which they won on penalties, and the tension is palpable. Senegal’s experience in high-stakes matches and squad depth positions them strongly, but this encounter is expected to be closely fought.
1. Morocco: The Host Nation and Top Contenders
Morocco, the host country, began the tournament in a fashion that was somewhat “stodgy, underwhelming and peevish.” Their initial matches lacked flow and excitement, drawing unfavorable comparisons to England’s vibrant Euro 2024 campaign. Despite this, they have steadily grown stronger—fuelled by the passion of the home crowd and a crystal-clear ambition to claim the title on home soil.
Morocco’s progress to the semi-finals hints at their ability to raise their game when it matters. With tactical discipline and a mix of youth and experience throughout their squad, they have weathered challenges to become favorites. Their upcoming semi-final against Nigeria will test their mental and physical resilience, but as hosts accustomed to fervent support, Morocco carry momentum others might envy.
Conclusion: Who Will Lift the Trophy?
As AFCON 2025 reaches its crescendo, the race for the title remains wide open. Morocco’s host advantage and improving form make them slight favorites, but Nigeria’s attacking flair and Senegal’s depth cannot be underestimated. Egypt, while the least favored among the four, bring grit and the talent of Mohamed Salah, ensuring no semifinalist lacks hope.
Ultimately, this stage represents the best Africa has to offer, and the upcoming matches promise drama, skill, and unforgettable moments. Whatever the outcome, the 2025 African Cup of Nations continues to uphold its tradition as one of the continent’s most thrilling sporting spectacles. Fans will be glued to their screens next Wednesday to see who writes their name into AFCON history.The 2025 African Cup of Nations has reached the semi-final stage, bringing Africa’s top footballing nations to the brink of glory. This year’s tournament, hosted by Morocco, has delivered thrilling moments and intense competition, setting the stage for two electrifying semi-final matches. The final four teams—Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, and Senegal—each present unique strengths and challenges. But which country is the most likely to lift the coveted trophy? By examining factors such as current form, player performances, tactical setups, and fixture dynamics, we can rank the contenders and anticipate the outcomes in this fascinating stage of the competition.
