After glorious victories and bitter defeats, the semi- finals in Africa's Cup of Nations have now taken shape.

Ghana fans had high hopes as they went to the Accra stadium for the opening match. Their team made it to the quarter-finals but were beaten by South Africa.

The Atlas Lions of Morocco were favourites to win the Cup of Nations. The team clinched a first round victory with the lone goal scored in the 84th minute by Spanish-based Salaheddine Bassir, who had come on just minutes earlier as a substitute.

It was not to be for Morocco. Nigeria's Super Eagles celebrated a 2-0 win over Morocco that put them into the quarter finals. The Atlas Lions had not lost a match since 1998 before this defeat.

Gabon failed to work any magic this tournament. The team conceded three goals in both their opening games and went on to a draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Before the Zambia v Burkina Faso kick-off, the floodlights cut through the dust brought down from the Sahara. The teams drew 1-1 and missed out on a place in the quarter finals.

Zambian fans remained cheerful despite their team being knocked out of the Cup.

The South African team had a warm welcome in Kumasi and fans hopes for their semi-final clash with Nigeria are high