Cameroon, Morocco Advance to Quarter-Finals; Nigeria Set for Mozambique Showdown Monday

By Emmanuel Kwada

The knockout stage of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 exploded into life on Sunday, with hosts Morocco and five-time champions Cameroon booking their places in the quarter-finals through hard-fought victories in Rabat, setting up a mouthwatering North African derby in the last eight while the Super Eagles of Nigeria prepare for their own challenge on Monday.

In the early kick-off at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the Atlas Lions labored to a 1-0 win over a resilient Tanzania side that marked their historic first appearance in the AFCON knockout rounds after 45 years.

Brahim Díaz of Morocco celebrating his forth goals

Morocco dominated possession and carved out numerous opportunities, but it took until the 64th minute for Real Madrid forward Brahim Díaz to break the deadlock.

The breakthrough came from a tight angle after a clever assist from Achraf Hakimi, with Díaz lashing the ball into the net to spark wild celebrations among the home crowd.

Despite relentless pressure, Tanzania’s stubborn defense held firm, forcing Morocco to settle for a narrow margin that nonetheless extended their unbeaten run and propelled them forward.

Walid Regragui’s side, Africa’s highest-ranked team, now turn their attention to a high-stakes clash with Cameroon, knowing a victory could ignite their campaign for a first title since 1976.

Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and company will look to maintain their momentum.

Later in the evening at the Al Barid Stadium, Cameroon delivered a clinical performance to dispatch South Africa 2-1 in a thrilling encounter packed with end-to-end action.

The Indomitable Lions took control early when defender Junior Tchamadeu opened the scoring in the 34th minute, converting a low drive from a deflected cross for his maiden international goal.

The lead was doubled shortly after the break through youngster Christian Kofane, who powered home a header from Mahamadou Nagida’s precise delivery.

Bafana Bafana, coached by Hugo Broos—who famously guided Cameroon to glory in 2017—fought valiantly and created plenty of chances, but their profligacy in front of goal proved costly.

Indomitable Lions’ defender Junior Tchamadeu celebrating his opening goal in the 34th minute.

A late consolation from Evidence Makgopa in the 88th minute, slotted in from a low cross, ensured a tense finish, yet Cameroon’s resolute defending saw them through.

The result eliminates South Africa and confirms a blockbuster quarter-final against the hosts, where emotions will run high.

With these results, the quarter-final lineup is taking shape following Saturday’s openers, where reigning runners-up Senegal cruised past Sudan 3-1, and Mali edged Tunisia 3-2 on penalties after a dramatic 1-1 draw in extra time.

The Indomitable Lions’ triumph adds further intrigue to the tournament, as Cameroon eye a record-extending sixth title amid their storied history.

Attention now shifts to Monday’s fixtures, where three-time champions Nigeria face Mozambique in Fez.

The Super Eagles, one of only two teams to sweep the group stage with maximum points and the tournament’s most potent attack, enter as heavy favorites against the Mambas, who are making their debut in the knockouts after a historic first-ever AFCON win.

Ademola Lookman in action during AFCON 2025.

Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and company will look to maintain their momentum in what promises to be an attacking spectacle, with the winner potentially facing Algeria or DR Congo in the quarters.

Earlier on Monday, Egypt—chasing a record eighth crown—take on Benin in Agadir, with Mohamed Salah and company expected to navigate the challenge smoothly.

The knockout drama shows no signs of slowing, with upsets lurking and continental giants colliding in pursuit of glory. The quarter-finals kick off on Friday, promising more unforgettable moments in Africa’s premier football spectacle.

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