The group stage of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023 concluded, setting the stage for thrilling knock-out stage clashes. Let’s delve into the matchups and the roadmap for the upcoming knockout battles.
In the standout clash, defending champions Senegal are set to face tournament hosts Cote d’Ivoire. Despite the Elehpants’ unexpected 4-0 loss to Equatorial Guinea in the final group game, they progressed and now confront the formidable Senegalese side, yet to drop a point.
Another heavyweight showdown awaits as Nigeria and Cameroon lock horns. Despite uneven performances in the group stages, both teams remain continental powerhouses, promising an intense encounter.
Morocco, topping their group without conceding, will seek to continue their fine form against South Africa, while underdogs Equatorial Guinea aim to cause another upset against Guinea after an impressive undefeated run in Group A.
Namibia, making history by reaching the knockout stage for the first time, faces a challenging encounter against two-time quarter finalists Angola. Egypt, despite a lackluster group stage, poses a threat as the most successful AFCON nation, clashing with DR Congo.
Additional intriguing clashes include Mali vs. Burkina Faso and Cape Verde vs. Mauritania, setting the stage for sudden-death matches between Africa’s top sides. The Round of 16 promises pulsating action as favorites and underdogs collide.
Highlighted Fixtures:
- Nigeria vs. Cameroon: Two giants aiming to end a decade without an AFCON trophy. The clash happens on Saturday, January 27, at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan.
- Cape Verde vs. Mauritania: After an impressive group stage, Cape Verde faces Mauritania on Monday, January 29, at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium.
- Equatorial Guinea vs. Guinea: Equatorial Guinea, topping their group, faces Guinea on Sunday, January 28, at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium.
- Angola vs. Namibia: Namibia, making history, meets Angola on January 27 at Stade de la paix in Bouake.
- Mali vs. Burkina Faso: Mali, unbeaten in the group stage, battles Burkina Faso on January 29 at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium.
- Egypt vs. DR Congo: Despite a lackluster group stage, Egypt faces DR Congo on January 28 at the Laurent Pokou Stadium.
- Senegal vs. Côte d’Ivoire: Host Côte d’Ivoire, progressing despite a 4-0 defeat, takes on defending champions Senegal on January 29 at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium.
- Morocco vs. South Africa: 2022 FIFA World Cup semifinalists Morocco face South Africa on January 30 at the Laurent Pokou Stadium.
As the journey unfolds, the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Côte d’Ivoire 2023 promises enthralling matchups and an unpredictable path toward crowning the continental champion. Enjoy the excitement of the knockout stage!
