AFCON 2025: 20 Players at Risk of Suspension Ahead of the Final

As the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 reaches its decisive stage, a total of 20 players enter the semi-finals under the threat of suspension should they receive another yellow card.

A specific regulation of the Africa Cup of Nations makes this situation particularly sensitive. Unlike competitions such as the FIFA World Cup or the UEFA Champions League, yellow cards are not wiped clean after the quarter-finals at the AFCON. As a result, any player who receives a second booking during the semi-finals will be ruled out of the final, scheduled for Sunday, January 18, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

Senegal Most Exposed, Morocco with Three Players at Risk

On Wednesday, Senegal will face Egypt (18:00), while Morocco take on Nigeria (21:00) for a place in the final. The Lions of Teranga are the most exposed, with seven players walking a disciplinary tightrope. Among them are key figures such as Kalidou Koulibaly, Pape Gueye, Habib Diarra and Habib Diallo.

Egypt are not spared either, with six players under threat of suspension. Goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy, along with Rami Rabia, Marwan Attia and Hossam Abdelmaguid, must all avoid a booking to remain eligible for the final.

Host nation Morocco have three players at risk. Bilal El Khannouss, Soufiane Rahimi and Ismael Saibari will need to manage their intensity carefully in the semi-final clash against Nigeria.

For the Super Eagles, four players are concerned, including goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, defenders Calvin Bassey, and midfielders Moses Simon and Frank Onyeka.