With AFCON 2023 upon us, we take a look at the final group. Group F promises intense clashes and potential surprises. Let’s dive into the prospects of each team in this challenging group.
MOROCCO: AIMING FOR GLORY
After a strong World Cup run in 2022, Morocco sets its sights on AFCON success. Coach Walid Regragui, with a confident yet humble approach, aims for at least a semi-final finish.
The pressure is on as the nation has invested over $120 million in football infrastructure, raising expectations. Efficiency in front of goal remains a concern, with Morocco’s need to convert chances into goals apparent.
The team boasts a fluid squad with standout players like Hakimi, Ziyech, Amrabat, Boufal, En-Nesyri, Ounahi and El Azzouzi, but breaking their semi-final jinx will be a true test.
DR CONGO: SEEKING CONSISTENCY
DR Congo, once a powerhouse, face a challenging AFCON history. Coach Sébastien Desabre aims to elevate the team, tapping into the Congolese diaspora for talent.
The addition of players like Banza and Pickel brings variety, but defensive vulnerabilities may pose a challenge. The squad’s strength lies in players like Mbemba, Kakuta, and the dynamic forward Mvumpa.
The Leopards’ journey undoubtedly hinges on finding the right balance and overcoming past inconsistencies.
ZAMBIA: QUIET EXPECTATIONS
Back after a hiatus, Zambia, led by experienced coach Avram Grant, have quietly built up consistency. Striker Patson Daka and Saudi-based winger Fashion Sakala bring goal-scoring prowess.
Grant’s focus on meritocracy boosts team morale, aiming for a solid performance against Group F rivals. A modest team with potential, Zambia’s success may hinge on Daka’s partnership with Sakala and the contributions of players like Kangwa and Musonda.
TANZANIA: GRIT AND DETERMINATION
Tanzania’s qualification reflects the nation’s football growth, led by local clubs Simba SC and Young Africans. Despite defensive concerns and a lack of depth, Coach Adel Amrouche’s team impressively secured qualification for the tournament.
The inclusion of diaspora players from England’s lower tiers adds depth, but questions linger about their impact. Former stars Samatta and Msuva add experience to the squad, but success depends on overcoming defensive lapses and finding a scoring touch.
In Group F, the stage is set for thrilling encounters as these teams vie for AFCON glory. Morocco seeks redemption, DR Congo aims for consistency, Zambia eyes a quiet ascent, and Tanzania hope to showcase grit against formidable opponents.
The journey begins in Côte D’ivoire in a few hours and football fans eagerly await the drama and excitement Group F will unfold.
Group E in AFCON 2023 brings together Tunisia, Mali, South Africa, and Namibia. Can Tunisia replicate their 2004 success? Let’s dive into the teams and their prospects.
TUNISIA
Tunisia, consistent quarter-finalists, eyes success after the 2004 title. Salam Sidiki, a Tunisian journalist, believes a tournament win might be premature. Coach Jalel Kadri faces skepticism, but with a balanced squad, including Bundesliga duo Laïdouni and Skhiri, they aim for at least a semi-final berth.
MALI
Mali, respected for talent production, seeks recognition at senior levels. Injuries, notably to Ibrahima Koné, challenge their campaign. Tottenham’s Yves Bissouma becomes crucial. Mali’s solid defense clashes with goal-scoring concerns, presenting a challenge in a 4-3-3 formation.
SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa, under coach Hugo Broos, adapts to Sundowns’ dominance. Striker challenges emerge with injuries to Mothiba and Foster’s unavailability, putting pressure on Lepasa and Makgopa. Broos aims to solve scoring issues in a 4-2-3-1 formation, leaning on his Mamelodi Sundowns’ core.
NAMIBIA
Namibia, in their fourth AFCON appearance, eye historic success. Coach Collin Benjamin, with a blend of experience and emerging talent, aims to rewrite their narrative. Striker Peter Shalulile’s form and Benjamin’s expertise shape their 4-4-1-1 strategy, playing to their strengths.
Tunisia and Mali are perhaps favourites to go through but te Bafana Bafana are confident of their chances. Namibia meanwhile will aim to pull off a few upsets. All to play for in Group E.
As the anticipation builds for AFCON 2023, let’s delve into a preview of the teams set to clash in the group stage. Here’s the group D preview.
ALGERIA’S REDEMPTION QUEST:
After a lackluster defense of their 2019 title, Algeria is poised for redemption. Manager Djamel Belmadi has ushered in a new era, favoring youth and bidding farewell to veterans.
With a revamped squad, they aim to address defensive vulnerabilities and improve a lackluster goal-scoring record from the last AFCON.
Key Men:
Despite losing top scorer Mohammed Amoura to injury, the experienced Riyad Mahrez leads the charge. The likes of Islam Slimani and Baghdad Bounedjah will be crucial in the attacking third. Watch out for emerging talents like Farès Chaïbi.
BURKINA FASO’S “NEARLY MEN” STATUS:
Burkina Faso, often labeled as “nearly men”, seek to break the trend. Coach Hubert Velud faces internal challenges but hopes to guide the Stallions deep into the tournament.
Aston Villa winger Bertrand Traoré remains a key figure, and the team’s fluid 4-4-2 system, shifting to 4-3-3, aims to maintain their trademark counter-attacking style.
Style of Play:
Velud’s tactical acumen, coupled with the prowess of players like Edmond Tabsoba, Mamady Bangré, and Abdoul Tapsoba, sets Burkina Faso on an intriguing path in Group D.
MAURITANIA’S RISE AND RESILIENCE
Mauritania’s journey from forfeiting matches to AFCON regulars is a testament to their progress. Coach Amir Abdou, known for his no-nonsense approach, leads a team reliant on collective effort.
Stars like Aboubakar Kamara and Aboubakary Koïta aim to make an impact, while goalkeeper Babacar Niasse stands tall between the posts.
Key Players:
Hemeya Tanjy and the prolific Aboubakar Kamara add firepower to the team. Despite their underdog status, Mauritania’s resilience makes them a team to watch.
ANGOLA’S TRANSITIONAL PHASE:
Angola, labeled the “weakest” in Group D by their coach, Pedro Gonçalves, faces challenges in finding the back of the net. A mix of youth and experience, including the likes of Gelson Dala and Zito Luvumbo, aim to make an impact.
Gonçalves’ experimentation reflects the team’s transitional phase, as he seeks a reliable core to settle and build upon.
Defensive Setup:
Angola opts for a back three, with Neblú guarding the goal. Jonathan Buatu, Núrio Fortuna, and Kialonda Gaspar form the defensive trio, while Tó Carneiro and Loide Augusto provide width as full-backs.
Group D promises a mix of redemption quests, tactical battles, and underdog stories. As these teams vie for supremacy, football enthusiasts can expect captivating moments and unpredictable outcomes in AFCON 2023.
Group C in this year’s AFCON promises intense competition as Senegal and Cameroon, with their rich football history, meet for the ninth time. Despite being perceived as the top contenders, the underdog teams, The Gambia and Guinea, are ready to challenge the giants in what’s being dubbed the “group of death.”
SENEGAL’S QUEST FOR BACK TO BACK TITLES:
Senegal, the defending champions, aim to retain their crown after ending a long trophy drought in 2021. Led by the prolific Sadio Mané, Senegal faces questions about maintaining their intensity, especially with key players moving to the Gulf Region.
The challenge is set, and the Lions of Teranga are motivated by the increased prize money. This is quite possibly this golden generation’s last opportunity to add more silverware to their collection.
Defending Champions Curse:
AFCON defending champions have struggled in recent years, facing challenges such as losing their X-factor, opponents figuring them out, or succumbing to complacency. Senegal is aware of the hurdles but is determined to defy the trend and secure another title.
Sadio Mané’s Ambition:
Sadio Mané, fresh off a remarkable start to the year, expresses his desire to win AFCON again. Playing in the Saudi Pro League, Mané believes this edition will be his toughest yet and has emphasised the significance of the AFCON trophy in his career.
Supporting Cast for Senegal:
With Mané’s role crucial but challenged by factors like age and a less competitive league, other players like Nicolas Jackson, Ismaïla Sarr, Boulaye Dia, Abdallah Sima, and Lamine Camara need to step up for Senegal to succeed.
CAMEROON’S CONTROVERSIES AND CHALLENGES
Cameroon, one of the few to defend their AFCON title, faces controversies, including coaching changes and player disputes. The late arrival of goalkeeper André Onana poses challenges for coach Rigobert Song, potentially affecting the team’s performance in the crucial first group game.
Aboubakar and Toko Ekambi – The Striking Duo:
Cameroon’s success heavily relies on Vincent Aboubakar and Karl Toko Ekambi, who displayed their goal-scoring prowess in the 2021 AFCON as the Indomitable Lions clinched the title.
The absence of Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting adds pressure on these two veterans to recreate their magic from the previous edition.
GUINEA’S HOPES AND CONCERNS
Guinea, led by coach Kaba Diawara, aim for their first AFCON title. The injury to key player Serhou Guirassy is a huge worry, but replacements like Mohammed Bayo need to step up.
Captain Naby Keïta, formerly of Liverpool, shoulders the responsibility to lead Guinea to a deeper tournament run.
THE GAMBIA’S UNDERDOG SPIRIT:
The Gambia, back as underdogs, left a mark in the previous AFCON by progressing to the quarter-finals. Coach Tom Sanfiet’s defensive approach has served them well, and with key players like Assan Ceesay, Musa Barrow, Ablie Jallow, and Ebrima Colley, they look to replicate their heroics.
Yankuba Minteh – A Rising Star:
Keep an eye on Yankuba Minteh, the 19-year-old sensation from The Gambia. Despite limited international appearances, his impressive performances in the Dutch Eredivisie and the Champions League make him a wildcard to watch in AFCON 2023.
In Group C, the stage is set for thrilling clashes, where the giants aim to assert dominance, and the dark horses seek to create upsets. The unpredictable nature of football ensures that anything can happen in the group of death.
As the anticipation builds for AFCON 2023, Group B promises thrilling clashes featuring football powerhouses Egypt, Ghana, underdogs Cape Verde, and Mozambique eager to make their mark.
EGYPT: CHASING EIGHTH GLORY
Rebuilding Phase:
Once a dominant force, Egypt’s golden era seems to be fading, but with an average squad age of 28.9 years, the Pharaohs, led by coach Rui Vitória, are determined to reclaim the glory days.
Salah’s Quest:
Mohamed Salah, Egypt’s talisman, eyes his first AFCON title after two heartbreaking final losses. With outstanding form at Liverpool where he tops the Premier League for both goals (18) and assists (8), he aims to become the first Egyptian to score in four AFCON tournaments.
Supporting Cast:
Keep an eye on rising stars like Omar Marmoush, making waves in Bundesliga with Eintracht Frankfurt, and Mostafa Mohamed, a potent force in Ligue 1 with Nantes, adding depth to Egypt’s attacking prowess.Goalkeeping Strength: Goalkeeping duo Gabaski and El Shenawy bring reliability to Egypt’s defense, crucial for their AFCON aspirations.
Goalkeeping Strength:
One of the key components of Egypt’s ‘golden generation’ was Essam El-Hadary – one of Africa’s finest ever goalkeepers. He’s the goalkeeping coach for the Pharaohs and has gotten the best out of goalkeeping duo Gabaski and El Shenawy.
El Shenawy was widely regarded as the best goalkeeper at the last tournament before his untimely injury allowed Gabaski to capture the imagination with his penalty heroics. They will bring reliability to Egypt’s defense, crucial for their AFCON aspirations.
GHANA: NAVIGATING A DECLINE HUGHTON’S CHALLENGE:
Ghana faces a challenging phase with coach Chris Hughton aiming to revive the team’s former glory. Struggling for goals, Ghana’s performance in recent tournaments has left fans yearning for a resurgence.
Injury Woes and Low Expectations:
Injuries to key players like Thomas Partey and Tariq Lamptey add to Ghana’s challenges. Low expectations surround the team as they seek redemption in Ivory Coast.
André Ayew’s Legacy:
Veteran André Ayew eyes AFCON immortality, aiming to set records in his eighth tournament. Only Rigobert Song (Cameroon) and Ahmed Hassan (Egypt) have previously managed to feature in eight AFCON tournaments.
The Le Havre man is two games away from playing the most AFCON games in history. He is also Ghana’s all time topscorer at AFCON with 10 goals, meaning any he scores in Ivory Coast will extend his existing record.
The 34 year old has scored in six of his previous seven tournaments – if he finds the back of the net this time round, he’ll set a new record and overtake Samuel Eto’o, Kalusha Bwalya and Asamoah Gyan for the most tournaments scored in.
Mohammed Kudus’ time to shine:
In Qatar just over a year ago, the former Ajax standout showcased his prowess, making history as the first Ghanaian to net two goals in a World Cup match. Kudus has been a sensation for West Ham this season, securing the second-highest goal tally at 10, just trailing Jarrod Bowen (14).
Not only a goal-scorer, but Kudus has also made a creative impact, with only Lucas Paquetá (37) surpassing his 18 chances created in open play across all competitions before his departure for the tournament.
The Black Stars team is screaming out for a new star to emerge and carry the nation’s hopes on his shoulders. This tournament could see Kudus do just that, he’s certainly got the ability to do so.
Goalkeeping Dilemma:
Ghana grapples with a goalkeeping conundrum, with Hughton needing to finalise his starting keeper for the tournament. Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Joseph Wollacott and Richard Ofori battle for the number one spot.
CAPE VERDE: RISING STARS
Remarkable Journey:
Cape Verde’s football rise, fueled by expatriate talent, has been impressive. From AFCON debutants to contenders, they aim to build on their 2013 success where they reached the quarter finals of the competition in their maiden appearance.
Ryan Mendes:
Experienced winger Ryan Mendes leads Cape Verde, offering stability and goal-scoring prowess. Their clash with Ghana promises to reignite memories of their intense quarterfinal battle in 2013.
MOZAMBIQUE: CHASING FIRST VICTORY
Long Wait For Success:
Mozambique returns to AFCON after a 13-year hiatus, seeking their first tournament win. With limited expectations, the Mambas aim to create history in Ivory Coast.
Domingues’ Enduring Legacy:
Domingues, Mozambique’s seasoned player at 40, adds a vast wealth of experience to the squad. As the oldest player in the tournament, he eyes a memorable campaign with a goal-scoring revival.
Injury Concerns:
Reinildo’s injury casts uncertainty over Mozambique’s defensive stability, posing a challenge for coach Chiquinho Conde.
Group B promises a mix of experience and emerging talent, setting the stage for riveting encounters as these nations vie for supremacy in the 2023 AFCON.
