The Africa Cup of Nations is racing toward its climax, with the quarter-final lineup now confirmed as the tournament enters its decisive phase in Morocco. 

With the last eight almost upon us, the competition has lived up to its billing as one of the most competitive AFCON editions in recent memory.

All eight remaining teams sit inside the top 10 of CAF’s FIFA rankings and between them boast a combined 20 continental titles. 

That pedigree has been reflected in the intensity and quality of the knockout rounds so far, with extra-time thrillers, penalty shootouts, and commanding performances separating contenders from pretenders.

Action resumes on Friday as Mali face reigning champions Senegal in Tangier, before hosts Morocco take on Cameroon in Rabat later the same evening. 

Saturday’s programme is equally eye-catching, with Algeria meeting Nigeria in Marrakech, followed by a heavyweight clash between Egypt and Ivory Coast in Agadir to decide the final semi-finalist.

The road to the quarter-finals delivered plenty of drama. Senegal eased past Sudan, while Mali edged Tunisia on penalties after a tense draw. 

Morocco relied on home support to see off Tanzania, Cameroon eliminated South Africa, and Nigeria impressed with a dominant win over Mozambique. 

Egypt and Algeria both needed extra time to overcome Benin and DR Congo, respectively, while the Ivory Coast cruised past Burkina Faso.

The group stage also set the tone for a fiercely competitive tournament, with several groups going down to the final round of matches. 

Morocco topped Group A, Egypt edged Group B, Nigeria emerged from Group C, and Senegal asserted their authority in Group D. Algeria led Group E, while Ivory Coast narrowly claimed first place in Group F after a series of tight encounters.

The semi-finals are scheduled for Wednesday, January 14th, with the third-place play-off on January 17th and the final set for Sunday, January 18th in Rabat.