As the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations progresses, eight teams have successfully secured their spots in the quarter-finals, setting the stage for intense clashes. The first team to qualify was Angola, who defeated Namibia on Saturday evening. They are now set to take on the formidable Super Eagles of Nigeria, considered one of the competition’s favorites after overcoming the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon.
In a surprising turn of events, the hosts, Côte d’Ivoire, advanced to the last eight by defeating defending champions Senegal in a thrilling Round of 16 match. Frank Kessie’s decisive penalty took the game to a shootout, with the Elephants emerging victorious.
Cape Verde secured their place in the quarter-finals with a late Ryan Mendes penalty, marking their second appearance in this stage of the tournament. Guinea also delivered a dramatic winner in the eighth minute of injury time, defeating 10-man Equatorial Guinea 1-0.
The quarter-finals promise more excitement, with the following fixtures scheduled:
1. Nigeria vs Angola
- Date: Friday, February 2, 2024
- Venue: Felix Houphouet-Boigny
- Time: 6:00 pm
2. DR Congo vs Guinea
- Date: Friday, February 2, 2024
- Venue: Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara
- Time: 9:00 pm
3. Mali vs Cote d’Ivoire
- Date: Saturday, February 3, 2024
- Venue: Stade de Bouaké
- Time: 6:00 pm
4. Cape Verde vs South Africa
- Date: Saturday, February 3, 2024
- Venue: Stade Charles Konan Banny de Yamoussoukro
- Time: 9:00 pm
Football enthusiasts can look forward to these exciting matchups in the quest for the prestigious AFCON title.