Rabat: The Africa Cup of Nations has reached the semi-final stage, presenting two compelling matchups as hosts Morocco prepare to fend off challenges from fellow African heavyweights. Mohamed Salah's Egypt, Victor Osimhen's Nigeria, and Sadio Mané's Senegal all remain in contention to claim the trophy in Rabat next Sunday, although Morocco's home advantage makes them the favorites.
According to France24.com, Morocco, the top-ranked team in Africa and World Cup semi-finalists in 2022, will face Nigeria in the semi-final in the capital. Morocco is defending an unbeaten record since their last AFCON loss to South Africa. Under the leadership of Walid Regragui, Morocco has conceded just one goal in five matches, dispelling doubts about handling the pressure of playing at home with their 2-0 victory over Cameroon in the quarter-finals. Achraf Hakimi, the team captain and current African player of the year, is fit again after injury, and Real Madrid winger Brahim Diaz, with five goals in five games, stands out as a key player.
Morocco's AFCON history has been less impressive, with their last semi-final appearance in 2004. This year, they aim to match their 1976 achievement of lifting the trophy. On the other hand, Nigeria returns to Morocco with much to prove after a penalty shoot-out loss to the Democratic Republic of Congo ended their World Cup hopes. Despite Nigeria's notable footballing history, they will not participate in the upcoming World Cup, an anomaly given their recent performances. Nigeria, led by Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, currently leads the tournament in goals scored.
The other semi-final in Tangiers sees Egypt facing Senegal, a repeat of the 2022 final won by Senegal on penalties. Ranked second in Africa, Senegal is seen as a significant threat to Morocco. Their experienced squad includes Mané, who will face former Liverpool teammate Salah. The presence of the last five African player of the year winners underscores the high stakes of the semi-finals.
Salah, who has yet to win AFCON, aims to lead Egypt to a record-extending eighth title. Despite personal challenges at his club, Salah finds renewed purpose with his national team. He acknowledges the strength of the competition, noting the European experience of many opponents, while expressing his desire to secure the elusive AFCON title.