With the 16 qualified countries confirmed, the CAF (Confederation of African Football) has unveiled the different pots for the draw scheduled on October 24 in Johannesburg. The four pots are established based on the results of previous tournaments.
Hat 1 naturally includes, alongside the host country, teams such as Ghana, Zambia, and Ivory Coast. Ghana, a finalist and narrowly missing the podium in the last two editions, continues to affirm its strong standing in African football, along with the defending champions Chipolopolo and the Ivorian finalists.
Hat 2 will comprise Mali, Tunisia, Angola, and Nigeria, promising the potential for exciting matchups right from the initial group stage.
Pot 3 features Algeria, Morocco, Niger, and Burkina Faso. The returning Fennecs and the Atlas Lions aim to confirm their resurgence, while the Stallions, victorious against the Central African Republic, assert themselves as contenders.
Residents of Hat 4 are set to play the role of underdogs. However, caution is advised not to underestimate resilient teams such as Togo and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Ethiopia and Cape Verde may also bring surprises.
In summary:
- Hat 1: South Africa, Ghana, Zambia, Ivory Coast.
- Hat 2: Mali, Tunisia, Angola, Nigeria.
- Hat 3: Algeria, Morocco, Niger, Burkina Faso.
- Hat 4: Togo, DR Congo, Ethiopia, Cape Verde.
