The rhythm echoes through Abidjan, Ivory Coast, heralding the anticipation of the grandest football celebration of the year – the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Circle Saturday, January 13th, on your calendars for the tournament’s commencement, marked by an intense clash between hosts Ivory Coast and Guinea-Bissau.
A Flashback:
This occasion marks Ivory Coast’s second time hosting the AFCON, the initial instance dating back to 1984. In those days, only eight teams contended over 15 days, a sharp contrast to the upcoming 24-nation spectacle. While Cameroon secured victory in ’84, Ivory Coast couldn’t replicate home-field advantage, exiting after the group stage despite triumphing over Togo.
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Bigger, Better, Bolder:
Fast forward 40 years, and the AFCON has evolved into a colossal event. Brace yourself for 52 matches spanning 30 days, featuring 36 group-stage duels and 16 knockout encounters promising riveting action. Abidjan will serve as the epicenter, hosting 20 matches in two stadiums, while Bouake, San Pedro, Yamoussoukro, and Korhogo will also witness thrilling encounters.
The recently constructed 60,000-seat Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan will set the stage for the opening ceremony and the grand finale on February 11th. However, that’s just the beginning. Four additional stadiums, each with a capacity of 20,000 or more, have been built or refurbished explicitly for this tournament, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere throughout the country.
The Details:
– In the group stage, head-to-head records, goal difference, and total goals scored will be the tiebreakers.
– If needed, a lottery will determine final placings, reminiscent of Guinea’s fate in 2015.
– VAR will scrutinize all 52 matches with its eagle eye.
– Extra time and penalties will determine the outcome of drawn knockout matches.
– The round of 16 will see the top six group winners, six runners-up, and the four best third-placed teams battling it out.
– A record prize of seven million dollars awaits the champions, a 40% increase from the previous tournament.
Squads and Selection:
Teams can bring up to 27 players, but only 23 can be named for each match.
Ready, Set, Celebrate!
The stage is primed for a month of footballing brilliance, cultural exchanges, and continent-wide unity. So, grab your vuvuzelas, paint your faces, and prepare to cheer for your favorite team as AFCON fever grips Ivory Coast and beyond.