The first round of group matches at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations came to an end yesterday, setting the stage for an already decisive second day of competition in Egypt. This Wednesday marks the start of Matchday Two in Groups A and B, and the stakes are immediately high. With early surprises and contrasting starts across the groups, several teams already find themselves under pressure. For some, today’s fixtures could shape the rest of their tournament — or even determine whether their AFCON adventure continues.
Three matches are on the program, and each carries significant implications. In both Group A and Group B, certain nations must react quickly after difficult opening results, while others will be looking to build momentum and move closer to qualification for the round of 16.
The first match of the day takes place in Alexandria at 2:30 PM GMT, where Nigeria’s Super Eagles face Guinea’s Syli National in what promises to be a tightly contested encounter. Nigeria made a solid start to their campaign with a narrow but important 1–0 victory over Burundi. That result placed Gernot Rohr’s men in a favorable position, but another positive outcome today would go a long way toward securing early qualification. With experience across the squad and growing confidence, the Super Eagles know that a win against Guinea would allow them to approach their final group match with much less pressure.
For Guinea, however, this match already feels like a turning point. After being held to a 2–2 draw by Madagascar in their opener, the Syli National missed the chance to claim three precious points against a tournament debutant. That result has left them needing a strong response. Facing Nigeria is a major challenge, but also an opportunity to reset their campaign. A positive result in Alexandria would put Guinea back in the race and restore belief within the squad. Another setback, on the other hand, could leave them in a very uncomfortable position heading into the final round of group matches.
Later in the afternoon, attention shifts to Cairo, where Group A returns to action at 5:00 PM GMT with Uganda taking on Zimbabwe. Uganda started their tournament in impressive fashion by defeating the Democratic Republic of Congo 2–0. Organized, disciplined, and effective on the counterattack, the Cranes announced themselves as serious contenders for qualification. Against Zimbabwe, they will aim to confirm that first performance and possibly move to the top of the group.
Zimbabwe, meanwhile, come into this match knowing that they must avoid defeat. After a narrow loss to Egypt in the opening game, the Warriors showed encouraging signs but were ultimately left empty-handed. Another loss would put them under severe pressure before their final group match. A draw or a victory against Uganda would completely reopen their prospects and keep qualification firmly within reach.
The highlight of the day comes in the evening at 8:00 PM GMT, again in Cairo, where host nation Egypt face the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Pharaohs began their AFCON campaign with a controlled 1–0 win over Zimbabwe, satisfying their home supporters and putting themselves on the right path. A second consecutive victory would almost certainly secure their place in the knockout stage and allow them to manage their group more comfortably.
For the DRC, the situation is far more urgent. Their heavy defeat to Uganda in the opening match has left them bottom of Group A. Another loss would push the Leopards to the brink of elimination. Against a confident Egyptian side backed by a passionate home crowd, the task is daunting. Yet, it is precisely in these moments that character and experience are tested. The Congolese will need to show a reaction, both mentally and tactically, if they hope to revive their tournament.
With pressure mounting and qualification already in sight for some, Wednesday’s matches promise intensity, drama, and potentially decisive outcomes.
Wednesday’s schedule:
GROUP B: 2:30 PM GMT – Nigeria vs Guinea (Alexandria)
GROUP A: 5:00 PM GMT – Uganda vs Zimbabwe (Cairo)
GROUP A: 8:00 PM GMT – Egypt vs DR Congo (Cairo)
