Preview: AFCON Quarterfinals

Nigeria vs. Angola

Moses Simon of FC Nantes contributed 89 minutes to Nigeria’s 2-0 win against Cameroon, securing their spot in the quarterfinals. Simon has participated in four AFCON matches for Nigeria, earning starts in three of them. The next challenge for the Super Eagles is against Angola, who secured a 3-0 victory over Namibia.

Cape Verde vs. South Africa

Logan Costa of Toulouse FC completed the full 90 minutes in Cape Verde’s 1-0 victory against Mauritania. The 22-year-old defender has been a consistent starter, participating in all four matches for the Blue Sharks in this AFCON tournament. Next up, Cape Verde will take on South Africa, who secured a notable 2-0 win against tournament favorites Morocco.

DR Congo vs. Guinea

Mohamed Bayo of Le Havre emerged as Guinea’s savior, clinching a dramatic victory against Equatorial Guinea with a stoppage-time goal. In the upcoming match against DR Congo, Issiaga Sylla from Montpellier, Ibrahim Diakité from Stade de Reims, and Morgan Guilavogui from RC Lens will play pivotal roles. 

Following a thrilling victory against Egypt decided on penalty kicks, DR Congo is counting on the skills of Gedeon Kalulu from FC Lorient, Chancel Mbemba from Olympique de Marseille, and Samuel Moutoussamy from FC Nantes to secure their place in the semifinals.

Mali vs. Côte d’Ivoire

Mali secured a narrow 2-1 victory against Burkina Faso in their recent match to progress. The Eagles will be leaning on key contributions from Boubakar Kouyaté and Falaye Sacko of Montpellier, Monaco’s Mohamed Camara, and Kamory Doumbia of Stade Brestois as they aim to secure a spot in the semifinals. As for Côte d’Ivoire, Oumar Diakité of Stade de Reims and Wilfried Singo from Monaco contributed to the upset victory on penalty kicks against Senegal. The two players aim to play crucial roles in helping the host nation advance past Mali.