AFCON Round of 16 fixtures
The group stage of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023 concluded on Wednesday night, marking the end of an exciting phase and setting the stage for thrilling knock-out clashes.
The group stage lived up to the reputation of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON, delivering stellar shocks, numerous goals, record-breaking moments, historic achievements, and passionate fans filling match venues.
In a highly anticipated marquee match, defending champions Senegal are set to face tournament hosts Cote d’Ivoire. Despite a shocking 4-0 defeat to Equatorial Guinea in their final group game, the Elephants advanced and now face the daunting task of overcoming an in-form Senegal, who have yet to drop points in the tournament.
Another heavyweight clash awaits as Nigeria meets Cameroon, with both teams having uneven group stages but maintaining their status as continental powerhouses. Morocco, topping their group without conceding, will aim to continue their fine form against South Africa.
Underdogs Equatorial Guinea, after surprisingly winning Group A undefeated, will attempt another upset against Guinea. Namibia, making their first appearance in the knockouts, face a stern challenge from two-time quarterfinalists Angola.
Despite an underwhelming group stage, Egypt’s pedigree as the most successful TotalEnergies CAF AFCON nation makes them dangerous opponents for DR Congo. Other intriguing clashes include Mali against Burkina Faso and Cape Verde against Mauritania.
With sudden-death matches between some of Africa’s top sides, the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Round of 16 promises pulsating action and drama as heavy favorites and plucky underdogs collide.
Key Fixtures to Watch:
Nigeria vs. Cameroon
Both giants managed to qualify for the round of 16 despite a shaky start. Nigeria aims to end a decade-long wait for a TotalEnergies CAF AFCON trophy. Rigobert Song faces pressure to lead Cameroon to a better performance after struggling in the group stage. The game is scheduled for Saturday, January 27, at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan.
Cape Verde vs. Mauritania
Cape Verde, after a shocking run in the group stage, faces Mauritania in the round of 16. Amir Abdou has exceeded expectations by guiding Mauritania this far. The game is set for Monday, January 29, at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium.
Equatorial Guinea vs. Guinea
Equatorial Guinea, shockingly topping their group, faces inconsistent Guinea in the round of 16. The Syli Nationals must contend with the competition’s top scorer, Emilio Nsue. The game is scheduled for Sunday, January 28, at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium.
Angola vs. Namibia
Namibia makes history by qualifying for the knockout stage for the first time, facing Angola, two-time quarterfinalists. The game is set to take place at Stade de la paix in Bouake on January 27.
Mali vs. Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso looks to bounce back after a disappointing end to the group stage, facing unbeaten Mali at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium on January 29.
Egypt vs. D.R. Congo
Despite an underwhelming group stage, Egypt’s rich history poses a threat to any opponent, including D.R. Congo. The game is scheduled for January 28 at the Laurent Pokou Stadium.
Senegal vs. Côte d’Ivoire
Hosts Côte d’Ivoire, progressing despite a 4-0 defeat, face defending champions Senegal at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium on January 29.
Morocco vs. South Africa
Semifinalists in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Morocco faces South Africa in the round of 16 at the Laurent Pokou Stadium on January 30. The South African attack with Percy Tau and Themba Zwane poses a challenge for Morocco.