Most of Africa’s heavyweight nations tipped to challenge for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title have safely navigated the group stage and advanced to the Round of 16 in Morocco, with the tournament progressing largely according to expectations.
Alongside the established contenders, several ambitious sides seeking to strengthen their status on the continental stage have also secured qualification.
The leading title hopefuls delivered assured performances throughout the group phase, underlining their pedigree and sending a clear message of intent as the competition moves into the knockout rounds.
Their consistency and quality have reinforced expectations that the battle for the trophy will remain firmly in familiar hands.
Hosts Morocco topped Group A with seven points after victories over Comoros and Zambia, alongside a draw against Mali, who also advanced. The Atlas Lions scored six goals and conceded just once, setting up a Round of 16 encounter with Tanzania.
Morocco’s group campaign was highlighted by the form of Ayoub El Kaabi, who netted three goals, including spectacular scissor-kick finishes against Comoros and Zambia, while Real Madrid star Brahim Diaz impressed with his creativity and attacking influence.
Egypt also progressed without alarm, finishing top of Group B with seven points. Led by Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, the Pharaohs recorded wins over Zimbabwe and South Africa before drawing with Angola. They will face Benin in the Round of 16, with South Africa joining them in the knockout phase after finishing second and earning a high-profile clash with Cameroon.
Nigeria were among the most convincing teams of the group stage, advancing with a flawless record after winning all three matches to collect nine points. Powered by Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi, the Super Eagles now turn their attention to a Round of 16 meeting with Mozambique as they chase a place in the quarter-finals.
Tunisia also booked their spot in the knockout rounds after finishing second in Group C with four points and will take on Mali in what promises to be a tightly contested encounter.
Group D unfolded as expected, with Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo claiming qualification on seven points apiece. Superior goal difference handed top spot to the Lions of Teranga, who will face Sudan in the Round of 16, while DR Congo are set for a challenging clash against Algeria.
Algeria, inspired by Riyad Mahrez, cruised through Group E with maximum points from three wins and were joined in the Round of 16 by Burkina Faso, who will meet Ivory Coast.
Defending champions Ivory Coast and Cameroon also progressed from Group F with seven points each, with goal difference favouring the Elephants. Ivory Coast sealed top spot after a dramatic comeback victory over Gabon, overturning a two-goal deficit to win 3-2 and maintain their title defence momentum heading into the knockout stage.
