2023 AFCON round of 16: Thrilling matchups set stage for intense battles
The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has reached the Round of 16, bringing together 16 teams in a quest for supremacy in Cote d’Ivoire.
The upcoming four days promise football thrills and drama as teams battle for coveted spots in the quarterfinals. Here’s a breakdown of the exciting matchups:
1. Angola vs. Namibia Angola, topping their group, faces Namibia, making it past the group stage for the first time. The clash promises determination and history on the pitch.
2. Nigeria vs. Cameroon Two giants of African football, Nigeria and Cameroon, collide in a battle of eight AFCON titles. A historic rivalry unfolds with both sides eyeing a spot in the quarterfinals.
3. Equatorial Guinea vs. Guinea Dark horse Equatorial Guinea meets consistent quarterfinal contenders Guinea. The best-attacking team, Equatorial Guinea, faces Guinea’s solid tournament history in a thrilling encounter.
4. Egypt vs. DR Congo Despite struggles, seven-time champions Egypt remain favorites against two-time winners DR Congo. The absence of Mo Salah adds unpredictability to this clash, with Egypt’s legacy on the line.
5. Cape Verde vs. Mauritania Impressive Cape Verde faces Mauritania in a winnable clash. Cape Verde aims to match their 2013 quarterfinal run, while underdog Mauritania seeks to continue their fairy-tale journey.
6. Senegal vs. Cote d’Ivoire Defending champions Senegal, with a perfect group stage record, face hosts Cote d’Ivoire. Senegal navigates a potential stumbling block against a determined Ivorian side and their football-mad public.
7. Mali vs. Burkina Faso Burkina Faso meets Group E winners Mali in an evenly matched encounter. Mali eyes redemption, while Burkina Faso, with a 2017 bronze medal, poses a formidable challenge.
8. Morocco vs. South Africa AFCON underachievers Morocco and South Africa clash. Morocco, seeking a trophy since 1976, is favored against South Africa, struggling for a second AFCON triumph in nearly three decades.
The Round of 16 fixtures kicks off on Saturday, January 27, and concludes on Tuesday, January 30.
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