The African Cup Of Nations is the most underrated football tournament in the world. A fantastic concoction of incredible talent, passionate fans and unique stories, AFCON’s shine is often diminished by the fact that it takes place at the same time as domestic football leagues are going on.
AFCON 2023 was won by the Ivory Coast on home soil, despite suffering the worst home defeat in their history, finishing 3rd in their group and sacking their manager during the competition. Anything can happen at AFCON, and these players will be competing.
Nigeria are going into this tournament with by far the most to prove. Beaten finalists in 2023, the Super Eagles also recently failed to qualify for the World Cup.
Osayi-Samuel should be Nigeria’s first choice right back, despite losing his place in the Birmingham City starting lineup. Looking at Nigeria’s group, it’s difficult to see them failing to qualify.
Tunisia will be a tough test, but Tanzania and Uganda should be more straightforward. Beyond that, Nigeria have one of the best squads on the continent so it will not be a surprise to see them win the whole thing.
Patson Daka might only have one goal to his name so far this season, but he is still Zambia’s talisman. Unfortunately for Daka and Co, they’ve been drawn into a group with tournament hosts and favourites Morocco.
Topping the group may be unlikely but they will be looking to beat Mali and Comoros to 2nd place. Zambia are ranked 36 places below Mali in Fifa’s World Rankings so they will be pleased that a 3rd place finish might be enough to progress.
Just like Zambia, Angola will be glad that finishing 3rd in their group doesn’t automatically mean elimination. Egypt are the bookies joint second favourites to win the entire tournament and will have their eyes on top spot.
Meanwhile South Africa will be looking to ride the momentum from their World Cup qualification into a successful tournament. Zimbabwe complete Group B.
In 2023, Angola topped their group and made it to the Quarter Finals. With the likes of Benson, Mbala Zola and Clinton Mata in their squad, I don’t think that doing even better this time around is out of the question.
