Live updates: AFCON 2025 – Nigeria stun Algeria as Egypt clash with Ivory Coast
Welcome to our rolling coverage of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025. Today’s action features a standout fixture as Nigeria take on Algeria with a semi-final spot on the line, and a high-stakes encounter between Egypt and Côte d’Ivoire. Read on for minute-by-minute updates, analysis, and context as the drama unfolds in Marrakech and beyond.
Nigeria 2-0 Algeria: Semi-final rendezvous with Morocco
The full-time whistle confirms Nigeria’s advancement to the semi-finals, with a composed 2-0 victory over Algeria securing a clash with hosts Morocco. The Super Eagles showed patience, structure, and clinical finishing in a match that had strategic chess moves from both sides before Nigeria found the breakthrough and then sealed the win late on.
Key moments: Nigeria’s attack clicked in the second half as the team found a way through a stubborn Algerian defense. A well-worked goal opened the scoring, followed by a calm finish that showcased Nigeria’s composure in front of goal. Algeria pressed for an equaliser, but Nigeria’s backline held firm, and a late counter sealed the deal. The victory is a testament to Nigerian game management under pressure and their ability to convert chances in a knockout setting.
What this means: The result reshapes the AFCON knockout picture. Nigeria’s win sets up a marquee semi-final against Morocco, the host nation, underscoring a potential blockbuster clash that will be dissected for tactical battles, squad depth, and momentum. For Algeria, the exit is a tough pill after a tournament that promised plenty in the group stage but fell short in the knockout rounds.
Egypt vs Côte d’Ivoire: A decisive battle in the other semi-final picture
Meanwhile, all eyes are on Egypt against Côte d’Ivoire. Depending on the scoreline and times, this match holds the weight of determining who joins the other side of the semi-final lineup. Egypt, with their familiar playmaking talents and a solid defensive base, face an Ivory Coast side known for attacking flair and resilience. The outcome could redefine the final four as teams jockey for position and form ahead of the weekend’s crucial matches.
What to watch for: Midfield control and transition play will be decisive. Egypt will look to maximize chances from wide areas and set pieces, while Côte d’Ivoire will rely on pace and direct avenues to goal. As the clock ticks, expect tactical adjustments from both benches and perhaps a late surge from the trailing team as fatigue and nerves set in.
What to expect in the semi-finals
With Nigeria’s progression, the AFCON bracket is beginning to shape up for a potential derby of sorts in the final rounds. The Morocco-Nigeria pairing is already shaping up as a high-profile clash, given the host nation’s pressure to deliver on home soil alongside the continent’s rising powerhouses. In the other half, the Egypt–Ivory Coast result could set up a contrasting narrative of experience versus youth, depending on who advances.
Final thoughts and tactical takeaways
Today’s results highlight several recurring AFCON themes: the importance of discipline at the back, the value of smart substitutions, and the capacity of teams to convert limited chances into refereed, knockout-game goals. Nigeria’s efficiency in converting opportunities against a tough Algerian side will be studied by analysts as a possible blueprint for success in the remainder of the tournament. For Egypt and Côte d’Ivoire, the upcoming match will be about momentum—who can press the accelerator when the stakes are highest?
Keep following our live blog for the latest minute-by-minute updates, tactical insights, and reactions from coaches, players, and fans as AFCON 2025 reaches its thrilling climax in Morocco.
