The AFCON 2025 quarter-final stage delivered high drama, memorable goals, and exceptional individual performances that ultimately decided the teams heading into the semi-finals.
Nigeria’s dominant display against Algeria, Egypt’s efficient dismantling of Ivory Coast, and Morocco’s gritty victory over Cameroon all stood out, with key players stepping up when it mattered most.
This Team of the Week highlights the footballers who made the difference — from decisive saves and match-winning strikes to creative assists and inspiring leadership — as their countries kept their title ambitions alive.
Goalkeeper
Djigui Diarra (Mali)
Despite Mali’s exit, Diarra turned in an outstanding performance, producing a string of vital saves in open play to keep his side competitive until the closing stages.
Defence
A well-weighted cross led to Victor Osimhen’s opening goal, while a composed defensive display ensured Algeria found little joy down the flank.
Ramy Rabia (Egypt)
The Egyptian defender scored his side’s second goal with a powerful header and delivered a commanding defensive performance, including a crucial late intervention that sealed the win.
Calvin Bassey (Nigeria)
Imperious in the air and rock-solid in duels, Bassey helped Nigeria shut out Algeria completely, restricting them to zero shots on target.
Bright Osayi-Samuel (Nigeria)
His relentless energy and attacking width caused constant problems, stretching Algeria’s defence and sustaining Nigeria’s pressure.
Midfield
Emam Ashour (Egypt)
Ashour was instrumental in controlling the midfield and played a part in the move that led to Omar Marmoush’s early goal, blending defensive discipline with forward intent.
Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
Rather than dictating play from deep, Salah led by example with intelligent movement, a record-breaking goal, and strong on-field leadership.
Alex Iwobi (Nigeria)
Iwobi pulled the strings in midfield, setting the rhythm and delivering the pre-assist for both Nigerian goals with sharp vision and composure.
Brahim Díaz (Morocco)
The heartbeat of Morocco’s attack, Díaz provided the decisive assist against Cameroon and created several clear-cut chances.
Attack
Omar Marmoush (Egypt)
He broke the deadlock against Ivory Coast and spearheaded Egypt’s press, troubling defenders throughout with his sharp movement.
Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)
Named Man of the Match after opening the scoring and setting up Akor Adams, Osimhen combined lethal finishing with unselfish link-up play.
With Osimhen driving Nigeria forward, Salah continuing to rewrite AFCON history, and Díaz igniting Morocco’s creativity, these performances defined the quarter-finals and set up a thrilling semi-final stage.
As the competition approaches its decisive moments, attention now turns to which stars will rise again and lead their nations to AFCON glory.
