As the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, Côte d’Ivoire approaches, several participating teams engaged in friendly matches over the weekend to fine-tune their preparations for the upcoming tournament set to kick off on January 13th in Abidjan.

Algeria showcased their strength with a convincing 3-0 victory against Togo in Lome. Rami Ben Sbaini and Islam Slimani’s goals secured the win, boosting confidence for the Desert Foxes.

Another friendly against Burundi on January 9th awaits Algeria before they head to Bouake for the tournament. In another goal-filled encounter, Mali triumphed 6-2 over Guinea-Bissau.

Youssouf Niakate, Lassana Coulibaly, Kamory Doumbia, Sekou Niakate, Falaye Sacko, and Lassine Sinayoko all found the net, while Guinea-Bissau managed to score twice through Mama Baldé and Carlos Mané.

A goalless draw marked the friendly between DR Congo and Angola, highlighting a solid defensive performance from both teams. Despite the absence of goals, the match proved beneficial for the Leopards and Palancas Negras in their final preparations for the tournament.

Burkina Faso faced Iran in a friendly, suffering a 2-1 loss despite Mohamed Konate’s early goal in the 17th minute. Iran staged a comeback, securing two goals for the victory. Tunisia and Mauritania also played a goalless draw.

Coaches Jalal Kadri and Amir Abdou fine-tuned strategies and tried different tweaks, though both sides couldn’t find the net despite exciting moments on the pitch. The countdown to the tournament gets closer.