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The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 group stage concluded, shaping aspirations, testing powerhouses, and allowing underdogs to dream. Throughout Morocco, the group stage delivered excitement, unexpected results, and moments that highlighted why AFCON is one of football’s most unpredictable competitions. Now, the competition advances to the knockout round with the Round of 16. The teams that have qualified for the AFCON 2025 Round of 16 are Morocco, Mali, Egypt, South Africa, Nigeria, Tunisia, Tanzania, Senegal, DR Congo, Benin, Algeria, Burkina Faso, Sudan, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and Mozambique. The elimination phase embodies everything AFCON represents: established powerhouses under scrutiny, bold outsiders aiming for history, and unresolved rivalries ready to ignite. With the group stage drama behind them, the tournament now enters survival mode. Powerhouses under pressure For Africa’s top teams, there is little room for excuses. Morocco, as the host nation, faces immense expectations from their supporters. Côte d’Ivoire, the defending champions, are expected to retain their title. Egypt, the seven-time champions, are judged solely by their trophies. Senegal, Nigeria, Algeria, and Cameroon know that anything less than a strong performance would be considered a failure. From this point onward, every error could be costly. Bold outsiders challenging history Alongside the traditional powerhouses are teams with nothing to lose and everything to gain. Tanzania has made it to the knockout stage for the first time in their history, marking a significant milestone that has already sparked hope across East Africa. Mozambique, one of the standout teams of the tournament, earned their spot after achieving a historic AFCON victory. Benin continues to exceed expectations through organization, discipline, and team spirit. Several key matches are set to deliver intense action Morocco vs Tanzania The host nation will face a determined Tanzanian team, who are enjoying a historic qualification, with the pressure heavily on the Atlas Lions in front of their home fans. Ivory Coast vs Burkina Faso A fierce West African clash filled with intensity, speed, and rivalry between two teams that know each other well. Algeria vs DR Congo A physically and emotionally charged match between two sides with unresolved issues at AFCON. South Africa vs Cameroon A high-stakes battle between former champions, combining experience, strength, and tactical precision. Other matches include: Mali vs Tunisia, Senegal vs Sudan, Egypt vs Benin, and Nigeria vs Mozambique. The Round of 16 games will take place from 3–6 January 2026, followed by the quarter-finals on 9 and 10 January. The semi-finals are scheduled for 13 January, with the final set to be held in Rabat on 18 January, where the new African champions will be crowned.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).