Reviewing the group phase of the Africa Cup of Nations that challenged preconceptions about the continental showcase.
The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations group stage has been filled with drama, reaching new heights in Cote d’Ivoire. Predictions that the host nation would depend on other group results and that defending champions Algeria might exit early were scoffed at initially.
Despite Algeria’s undefeated streak since November 2022, they failed to secure a win in the group stage, continuing their winless run since the 2019 final. The tournament opener between Ivory Coast and Guinea-Bissau set the stage for a compelling group phase.
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Key Takeaways:
1. More Goals: AFCON 2023 witnessed a remarkable 89 goals in the group stage, surpassing the goal tally of both the 2021 and 2019 editions. The average goals per game (2.47) exceeded the previous five tournaments.
2. Ivory Coast’s Struggles: Ivory Coast, after an initial win, faced challenges, suffering a 4-0 defeat by Equatorial Guinea. Manager Jean-Louis Gasset was replaced by Emerse Fae before knowing their qualification fate.
3. Super Eagles’ Concerns: Nigeria faced scoring challenges, with only two of their three group-stage goals coming from a penalty and an own goal. Manager Jose Peseiro expressed concerns about the team’s poor conversion rate.
4. Equatorial Guinea’s Surprise: Equatorial Guinea, led by Emilio Nsue’s outstanding performance, topped their group. Nsue’s five goals made him the top scorer in the group stage.
5. Cape Verde’s Versatility: Cape Verde topped their group, displaying versatility in securing results through various means, including a dramatic 2-2 draw with Egypt.
6. Ghana’s Disappointment: Ghana faced consecutive disappointments, securing zero wins in their last six AFCON games and one in three tournaments. Manager Chris Hughton was relieved of his duties.
7. Egypt’s Challenges: Egypt faced challenges despite Mohamed Salah’s return, needing a late equalizer against Mozambique to progress. Consistency is crucial for their title aspirations.
8. Cameroon’s Onana Drama: Cameroon faced criticism for reinstating Andre Onana, overshadowing their performance. They face an uphill task in the knockouts.
9. Mauritania’s Compact Play: Mauritania, coached by Amir Abdou, showcased a compact style, unfortunate in their tournament opener but securing a nervy 1-0 win to eliminate Algeria.
10. Namibia’s Historic Win: Namibia secured their first-ever AFCON victory, defeating Tunisia. They face Angola in the Round of 16.
11. Morocco’s Potential: Morocco displayed potential against defensive teams, winning against Tanzania and Zambia. They aim to claim the continental crown that eluded them since 1976.
12. VAR Success: VAR’s implementation was notably successful in AFCON 2023, simplifying decision-making and providing clarity.
As the Round of 16 approaches, matchups like Ivory Coast vs. Senegal and Cameroon vs. Nigeria take center stage. The tournament promises more excitement, with unexpected outcomes and thrilling encounters. Brace yourself for the action ahead.