The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) remains the continent’s most prestigious football competition, showcasing the best of African talent since its inception in 1957.
Over nearly seven decades, the tournament has produced iconic champions, fierce rivalries and historic moments that have shaped African football.
From Egypt’s early dominance to recent triumphs by Senegal, AFCON has evolved into a truly competitive continental spectacle.
Egypt won the maiden edition in 1957 and went on to establish themselves as the most successful nation in AFCON history, holding the record with seven titles.
As the tournament expanded, new winners emerged, including Ghana, Cameroon, Nigeria, Algeria and Côte d’Ivoire, reflecting the growing depth and competitiveness of African football.
Below is the complete list of AFCON winners since the tournament began:
AFCON Winners by Year
1957 – Egypt
1959 – Egypt
1962 – Ethiopia
1963 – Ghana
1965 – Ghana
1968 – DR Congo
1970 – Sudan
1972 – Congo
1974 – DR Congo
1976 – Morocco
1978 – Ghana
1980 – Nigeria
1982 – Ghana
1984 – Cameroon
1986 – Egypt
1988 – Cameroon
1990 – Algeria
1992 – Côte d’Ivoire
1994 – Nigeria
1996 – South Africa
1998 – Egypt
2000 – Cameroon
2002 – Cameroon
2004 – Tunisia
2006 – Egypt
2008 – Egypt
2010 – Egypt
2012 – Zambia
2013 – Nigeria
2015 – Côte d’Ivoire
2017 – Cameroon
2019 – Algeria
2021 – Senegal
2023 – Côte d’Ivoire
2025 – Senegal
(AFCON 2021 was played in 2022, while AFCON 2023 was staged in 2024 due to scheduling adjustments.)
Most Successful Nations
Egypt – 7 titles
Cameroon – 5 titles
Ghana – 4 titles
Nigeria – 3 titles
Côte d’Ivoire – 3 titles
DR Congo – 2 titles
Algeria – 2 titles
Senegal – 2 titles
AFCON has served as a platform for legendary African footballers, unforgettable underdog stories and major tactical evolution.
As the tournament continues to grow in stature and global appeal, its rich history remains a testament to Africa’s football excellence.
