The African Cup of Nations is set to transpire from January 19 to February 10 in South Africa, and this weekend brought clarity on the qualified countries, revealing a mix of surprises, disappointments, and notable reunions.
Disappointments:
- Cameroon: The Indomitable Lions, led by Samuel Eto’o, face a major disappointment as they will miss two consecutive CAN tournaments, a rarity since 1980. They were eliminated by Cape Verde.
- Egypt: Three-time African champions in 2006, 2008, and 2010, Egypt will be absent from the CAN for the first time in consecutive tournaments, having been ousted by the modest Central African team.
- Senegal: Drawing Ivory Coast in the last round proved unfortunate for Senegal, as the Teranga Lions succumbed to the Elephants, with the match even being stopped due to violence from Senegalese supporters overwhelmed by Didier Drogba’s performance.
Surprises:
- Cape Verde: Emerging as the executioner of Cameroon, Cape Verde will make its debut in the CAN. The Blue Sharks’ resilience, with a 2-0 home victory and a narrow defeat in Cameroon (1-2), secured their place in South Africa.
- Ethiopia: After a 5-3 defeat in the first leg against Sudan, Ethiopia turned the tables with a 2-0 victory at home, marking the Walya Antelopes’ return to the CAN after 30 years.
- Niger: Making its second consecutive appearance, Niger secured its spot for 2013 by overcoming Guinea in a historic feat, reversing the situation with late goals in the return match.
Reunions:
- Ethiopia: Returning after three decades, Ethiopia qualified at the expense of Sudan, displaying resilience in the face of an initial 5-3 deficit.
- Togo: Six years after their last participation and the unfortunate events in Cabinda during CAN 2010, Togo, led by Adebayor, makes a return to the competition, eliminating Gabon.
The defending champion, Zambia, will aim to retain its title against strong contenders such as Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Algeria, considered favorites in the qualifiers.
