The western zone of the continent continues to showcase its strong performance in the final stages of the CAN. Once again, West Africa stands out as the most well-represented region among the 16 teams qualified for next year’s competition, with eight teams making it to South Africa.
Leading the Charge in West Africa:
- Ghana (The Regulars): As the first qualifier, Ghana boasts a rich history in the competition, having clinched the title four times. Despite their consistent presence, the Black Stars have been in pursuit of a new triumph since 1982.
- Ivory Coast (The Spearheads): Ivory Coast maintained its position by overcoming another West African contender, Senegal. The Elephants are set to make another attempt at securing the supreme title, following their appearances in the finals in 2006 and 2012 and a semi-final in 2008.
- Mali (The Regulars with Aspirations): Having secured the third position in 2012, Mali aims to surpass their previous performance with a squad characterized by a blend of experienced players and promising youth. This team brings joy to the nation, especially during these challenging times of socio-political crisis.