Defending champions Ivory Coast meet record seven-time winners Egypt in Saturday’s final quarter-final of AFCON 2025, a heavyweight tie stacked with European-based talent and shaped by fine margins rather than flair alone.
Betway price Ivory Coast at 2.32, Egypt at 3.50, with the draw at 2.85. The market leans toward the holders, reflecting their balance and momentum, but Egypt’s tournament pedigree and Mohamed Salah’s match-winning potential keep this finely poised.
Form and context
Egypt were made to work hard in the round of 16, needing extra time to see off Benin 3–1 after surrendering late control in regulation time. While the performance lacked fluency, the result extended the Pharaohs’ unbeaten run against African opposition to 14 matches (W12, D2). Hossam Hassan’s side have now gone five games without defeat (W4, D1), leaning on structure and moments of quality rather than sustained dominance.
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Team news
Injuries remain a concern. Mahmoud “Trezeguet” Hassan is a doubt after ligament damage, while Mohamed Hamdy is ruled out for the remainder of the tournament. Even so, Egypt retain depth across the spine, with Omar Marmoush offering another attacking threat and Salah capable of deciding tight contests.
Ivory Coast arrive with greater clarity. The champions delivered one of the performances of the tournament in the last 16, sweeping aside Burkina Faso 3–0 with authority while managing the game professionally. That win underlined their 10th knockout appearance in 11 AFCONs and extended a positive run across competitions.
Although Christ Inao Oulai is suspended, Emerse Faé still boasts a robust midfield core and pace out wide. Amad Diallo has already scored three times at this AFCON, while the back line has looked more settled as the stakes have risen.
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Where the value lies
The goal lines point toward caution. Under 2.5 goals at 1.48 and BTTS “No” at 1.68 both fit the likely script. Two disciplined sides, risk managed, chances rationed. Knockout AFCON quarter-finals between elite teams rarely open up early.
For added upside without chasing volatility, Ivory Coast by 1 goal at 4.10 reflects their edge while respecting Egypt’s resilience. The straight win at 2.32 is fair but not generous.
Prediction
Egypt’s history and Salah’s presence ensure danger, but Ivory Coast’s cohesion, balanced depth and momentum give them the narrow edge.
Pick: Under 2.5 goals @ 1.48
Secondary angle: Ivory Coast to win by 1 goal @ 4.10
Photo: Ayman Aref/NurPhoto via Getty Images
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