After the conclusion of the quarter-finals, the stage is now set for an exhilarating semi-final showdown at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2024), featuring some captivating match-ups.
The quartet of teams progressing to this pivotal stage includes the hosts, Ivory Coast, who showcased their mettle in a thrilling clash against Mali in Bouake.
Joining them in the quest for a coveted spot in the AFCON 2024 final are Nigeria, DR Congo, and South Africa.
The remaining four sides are poised to engage in intense battles as they vie for the two coveted spots in the grand finale of AFCON 2024, slated to take place on February 11.
Here are the AFCON 2024 semi-final fixtures
DR Congo vs Ivory Coast
A very interesting game is anticipated as the host nation continues their quest for an AFCON title on home soil.
After seeing off Mali in that incredible game, they are faced with a daunting task against a dangerous DR Congo side who have held their own so far in the tournament.
The history between these two teams adds an extra layer of excitement—seven matches at full international level, with Ivory Coast winning three, DR Congo clinching two victories, and two games ending in draws.
The last encounter in October 2019 saw Ivory Coast emerge as 3-1 winners, with Wilfred Kanon, Nicolas Pepe, and Wilfried Zaha finding the net, while Chadrac Akolo scored the sole goal for DR Congo.
The match will be played on February 7, 2024 at the Stade Allasane Quattara in Abidjan by 9pm West Africa Standard time.
Nigeria vs South Africa
The latest instalment of the Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana duels will happen in the semi-finals of AFCON 2024.
Nigeria secured their spot in the semi-finals after defeating Angola in the quarterfinals, while South Africa faced a formidable challenge from Cape Verde, resulting in a goalless draw in regulation time.
The match was ultimately decided by penalties, with Bafana Bafana triumphing 2-1.
This encounter holds added significance as the two teams previously met in the quarterfinals of the 2019 edition in Egypt. Nigeria emerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline, securing a spot in the semi-finals.
Samuel Chukwueze scored for Nigeria, and Bongani Zungu levelled for Bafana Bafana, but in the dying moments of regulation time, William Troost-Ekong clinched the winning goal for the Super Eagles.
In their 14 encounters across various competitions and international friendlies, Nigeria have emerged victorious in seven games, contrasting with South Africa's two wins. Additionally, five of their matches have ended in draws.
The match will be played on February 7, 2024 at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake by 6pm West Africa Standard time.
