RABAT — If the group stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations was meant to set the tone, it did so with maximum drama. Thirty-six matches, six groups, and one unforgettable New Year’s Eve later, AFCON has cut its field from 24 to 16 — and the message is clear: reputations mean little once the knockout football begins.
Morocco’s first AFCON as host since 1988 now enters its most unforgiving phase. From January 3, it’s win or go home.
All roads on December 31 led to Group F, where two simultaneous matches turned the final standings upside down.
In Marrakech, defending champions Ivory Coast looked momentarily lost. Down 2–0 to Gabon inside 22 minutes, Les Éléphants were staring at an early exit. What followed, however, was a reminder of why they lifted the trophy in 2023.
Jean-Philippe Krasso ignited the comeback. Evann Guessand leveled the contest. And with tension at its peak, Bazoumana Touré rose late to head home the winner — a 3–2 victory that felt less like a group-stage result and more like a statement of intent.
Over in Agadir, Cameroon faced their own scare against a fearless Mozambique side. After falling behind, the Indomitable Lions relied on experience and pressure — forcing an own goal before Christian Kofane struck the decisive blow in a 2–1 win.
When the dust settled, Ivory Coast and Cameroon were locked on seven points and identical goal difference. Goals scored separated them, handing top spot to the champions. Mozambique, despite two defeats, made history by qualifying for the knockout rounds as one of the best third-placed teams. Gabon, valiant but empty-handed, exited without a point.
The round of 16 lineup blends Africa’s traditional powers with nations daring to rewrite their footballing story.
The hosts cruised through, capped by a commanding 3–0 win over Zambia. Mali progressed without winning a match — three draws, but enough.
Egypt looked efficient rather than spectacular, while South Africa edged through thanks to a breathless 3–2 win over Zimbabwe.
Nigeria were flawless, the only team to win all three matches. Tanzania’s historic qualification was sealed with a gritty 1–1 draw against Tunisia — a milestone moment for the Taifa Stars.
Senegal and DR Congo marched in step, separated only by goal difference. Benin’s crucial victory over Botswana kept their AFCON dream alive.
Algeria were ruthless — three wins, one goal conceded. Burkina Faso did what was required on the final day, beating Sudan to secure passage.
With the group phase complete, the bracket is locked and the margin for error erased.
Round of 16 (CET)
From there, the path leads through Tangier, Marrakech and Agadir — before everything converges on Rabat for the final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on January 18.
AFCON 2025 has shed its warm-up phase. From here on, every mistake is fatal — and every moment has the power to echo across the continent.