The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) progresses to the knockout phase after an exhilarating group stage characterized by a flurry of goals, intense drama, unexpected outcomes, and a major scare for the host nation, Ivory Coast. Despite the gripping narratives that unfolded, the reigning champions, Senegal, continue to assert themselves as the team to beat.
This edition of the tournament, featuring 24 teams, is poised to surpass its predecessors in terms of goal-scoring prowess. The group stage witnessed a remarkable tally of 89 goals, averaging 2.5 per game. This statistic represents a substantial increase from the 68 goals scored in the initial round in Cameroon two years ago and the first expanded AFCON in Egypt in 2019.
Senegal, having reached the finals in the previous two tournaments and securing their maiden title in 2022, has maintained their impressive form in Ivory Coast. Under the leadership of Aliou Cisse, the team emerged from the group stage with an unblemished record, securing victories against Gambia, Cameroon, and Guinea. Spearheaded by Sadio Mane, Senegal approaches the last-16 clash with Ivory Coast in Yamoussoukro with confidence.
Morocco, the highest-ranked team in the continent, comfortably advanced with seven points. A sense prevails that there is more to come from a squad led by Paris Saint-Germain full-back Achraf Hakimi as they prepare to face South Africa in the upcoming fixture.
Nigeria, a three-time AFCON champion, has showcased remarkable defensive solidity in the tournament. Coach Jose Peseiro openly acknowledges that keeping clean sheets is his top priority, despite having an impressive array of attacking options, including superstar Victor Osimhen, the African Player of the Year. Peseiro explained his defensive strategy, stating, “My responsibility is to choose the best way to win this competition. I chose another strategy, and the players believe in it – don’t concede goals because we will score at least one.”
Drawing a shrewd comparison, Peseiro pointed out that Senegal only scored one goal in their first three games at the last AFCON before ultimately lifting the trophy. The strategic emphasis on defense appears to be a calculated approach to navigate the competition successfully.
