AFCON is bringing the heat. With seven different champions crowned in the past eight tournaments, it is clear that this competition is anything but predictable — it is a total vibe!
The eight top-ranked African countries have all advanced to the quarter-finals. These powerhouse teams, rich in history and supported by loyal followers, are set for some serious showdowns. The rivalries are fierce and the stakes are high.
These matches will not just be about past glories; these teams are hungry for championship silverware. Resilience and tactics can challenge the status quo, allowing the underdogs to rise and bring new stories to life. We take a closer look at the eight gladiators ready to battle for Africa’s ultimate football crown.
Morocco
Morocco narrowly beat Tanzania 1–0 to advance to the quarter-finals. The tournament hosts demonstrated a growing belief that this could finally be their year, 50 years after their last AFCON triumph. Real Madrid playmaker Brahim Díaz was the hero, providing the decisive moment that gave the national side the edge. This victory not only kept Morocco’s title hopes alive but also underlined the impressive offensive partnership with striker Ayoub El Kaabi, who netted three goals during the group stages.
@the.clutch_za Bafana Bafana Coach Hugo Broos was having none of it at the team’s arrival back in South Africa. Broos said he didn’t care about the negative comments made about his tactics at AFCON and needed a week to let things calm down before assessing their exit. Video by Mihlali Baleka.
♬ original sound – The Clutch_ZA
Cameroon
Cameroon, under the guidance of newly appointed coach David Pagou, have made a spectacular statement. With a series of impressive performances, the five-time champions have positioned themselves firmly in the knockout stages. In their second group match, Cameroon showcased their tenacity by holding a powerful Ivory Coast side to a stalemate. They further demonstrated their grit in the last 16, overcoming South Africa in a dramatic 2–1 encounter. Their reward is a formidable quarter-final clash against the hosts, Morocco.
Senegal
Senegal again proved their prowess on the continental stage, clinching a quarter-final berth with a commanding victory over Sudan. Under the astute management of Pape Thiaw, the squad has displayed remarkable depth. One of the standout performers was two-time African Footballer of the Year Sadio Mané, who contributed significantly with one goal and three assists. His experience remains indispensable and has undoubtedly galvanised the squad.
Mali
Mali secured their place in the quarter-finals after an intense penalty shootout victory over Tunisia, despite playing long stretches of the match with only ten men. The match was a testament to Mali’s resilience and tactical nous. Throughout the tournament, Mali have followed a perplexing trend: they have yet to win a game in normal time. They finished the group stage with three draws against Zambia, Morocco, and Comoros, yet these performances proved sufficient to advance.
Algeria
Algeria have emerged as one of the standout teams, though their path has not been without trials. Key to their success has been the performance of former Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez, who netted three goals in the group stage to help his team top Group E. In their last-16 clash against the Democratic Republic of Congo, Algeria secured victory with a spectacular late winner from Adil Boulbina in extra time.
Nigeria
Nigeria secured their quarter-final spot with a resounding 4–0 victory over Mozambique. Victor Osimhen scored twice to solidify his status as the team’s talisman and a potential tournament hero. Nigeria hope Osimhen can maintain this scoring form to help the three-time champions reclaim glory.
Egypt
Egypt may not yet have reached peak form, but with Mohamed Salah leading the charge, their quest for glory continues. In the last-16 clash against Benin, Salah epitomised the spirit of Egyptian football. In extra time, his intervention proved decisive, sealing a 3–1 victory that demonstrated both his technical dexterity and his ability to inspire his teammates under pressure.
Ivory Coast
Ivory Coast secured their quarter-final berth with a commanding 3–0 win against neighbours Burkina Faso. The clash was more than just a match; it was a celebration of talent and national pride. With every goal scored, the squad brought fans to their feet, instilling hope that the defending champions can go all the way again.
