The semi-final line-up for the Africa Cup of Nations has been confirmed, with Africa’s traditional heavyweights left standing after a dramatic quarter-final weekend that delivered goals, tension and high drama.

Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco and Senegal sealed their places in the last four after the quarter-finals matches were concluded on the weekend.

Hosts Morocco will play star-studded Nigeria and Senegal, who were first to advance to semi-finals, will face Egypt. Both matches will be played on Wednesday, 14 January.

Seven-time champions Egypt claimed the final place in the last four after knocking out defending champions Côte d’Ivoire 3-2 in a thrilling encounter on Saturday night, ending the Elephants’ reign and setting up a mouthwatering semi-final against Senegal.

Earlier in the competition, Senegal had already booked their place with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Mali, Iliman Ndiaye’s first-half strike proving decisive in a tense West African derby.

The Teranga Lions showed their tournament maturity by controlling the contest and protecting their slender advantage to reach yet another AFCON semi-final.

Morocco also remain firmly on course for a first continental title in 50 years after a composed 2-0 victory over Cameroon in Rabat.

Goals from Brahim Diaz and Ismaël Saibari ensured the Atlas Lions continued their impressive home campaign, underlining both their attacking quality and defensive balance.

Completing the quartet are Nigeria, who dispatched Algeria 2-0 in Marrakech.

Victor Osimhen broke the deadlock after a tightly contested opening spell before Akor Adams sealed the win late on, confirming Nigeria’s return to the last four and setting up a blockbuster clash with the hosts.

The final is scheduled for 18 January in Rabat.