High Stakes As Africa’s Football Giants Battle For Glory
By TAYO TAIWO (T. T.) OLUWOLE
AFCON 2025 Semi-Finals Preview – Senegal, Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria Face High-Stakes Clash
Senegal vs Egypt: A Rematch of the 2021 Final
THE 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is heating up as the semi-finals promise drama and intensity. First up, Senegal will take on Egypt at the Ibn Batouta Stadium in Tangier. This tie rekindles memories of the 2021 AFCON final, where Senegal triumphed over Egypt in a nerve-shredding penalty shootout.
Senegal enters this semi-final after a disciplined 1-0 victory over Mali in the quarter-finals. Pape Thiaw’s squad has impressed with a blend of tactical maturity and attacking potency, making them one of the tournament’s most consistent performers. Sadio Mané remains the lynchpin of the Lions of Teranga, capable of unlocking tight defences with his pace and movement.
Egypt, meanwhile, edged past defending champions Ivory Coast in a 3-2 thriller, showcasing resilience and attacking flair. Mohamed Salah, Egypt’s talisman, will be crucial if the Pharaohs hope to overcome their West African rivals. Betting markets suggest a high-scoring affair, with over 2.5 goals appearing a strong value pick.
Morocco vs Nigeria: Home Advantage vs Super Eagles Firepower
The second semi-final features host nation Morocco against Nigeria, whose Super Eagles have dazzled in Morocco throughout the tournament. Morocco’s 2-0 quarter-final win over Cameroon highlighted their technical discipline and home-ground advantage. The Atlas Lions, desperate to end a 50-year AFCON title drought, will rely on their defensive solidity and creative midfield to control the game.
Nigeria, record-semi-finalists for the 17th time, stormed past Algeria in a convincing 2-0 victory. The Super Eagles have already scored 14 goals in the tournament, led by a dynamic attacking duo that has caused chaos for opposing defences. With both teams in strong form, “Both Teams to Score” is an appealing betting option.
The semi-finals are shaping up to be a clash of styles: Senegal and Nigeria with attacking flair, versus Egypt and Morocco’s tactical discipline. Fine margins will decide who advances to the 2025 AFCON final.
