The group stage of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 delivered its verdict, dreams took shape, giants were tested, and underdogs dared to believe. Across Morocco, the group phase produced drama, surprises, and moments that reminded the continent why AFCON remains one of football’s most unpredictable tournaments. Now, the tournament moves into the knockout phase with the Round of 16. The teams qualified for the AFCON 2025 Round of 16 include Morocco, Mali, Egypt, South Africa, Nigeria, Tunisia, Tanzania, Senegal, DR Congo, Benin, Algeria, Burkina Faso, Sudan, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and Mozambique. The knockout stage reflects everything AFCON stands for: traditional giants under pressure, fearless outsiders chasing history, and unfinished rivalries ready to explode. With the group stage drama behind us, the tournament now shifts into survival mode. Giants under pressure For Africa’s heavyweights, there is little room for excuses. Morocco, as host nation, carries the weight of expectation in front of its fans. Côte d’Ivoire, reigning champions, are expected to defend their crown. Egypt, record seven-time winners, are judged only by trophies. Senegal, Nigeria, Algeria, and Cameroon know that anything short of a deep run would be seen as failure. From this stage on, every mistake can be fatal. Fearless outsiders rewriting history Alongside the giants stand teams with nothing to lose and everything to gain. Tanzania have reached the knockout stage for the first time in their history, a landmark achievement that has already inspired belief across East Africa. Mozambique, one of the revelations of the tournament, secured their place after recording a historic AFCON victory. Benin continue to punch above their weight through organisation, discipline, and collective spirit. Several high-profile fixtures promise fireworks Morocco vs Tanzania The host nation faces a fearless Tanzanian side enjoying a historic qualification, with pressure firmly on the Atlas Lions in front of their home crowd. Ivory Coast vs Burkina Faso A fiery West African derby loaded with intensity, pace, and rivalry between two sides that know each other well. Algeria vs DR Congo A physical and emotional encounter between two teams with unfinished business at AFCON. South Africa vs Cameroon A heavyweight clash between former champions, blending experience, power, and tactical discipline. Other matchups include: Mali vs Tunisia, Senegal vs Sudan, Egypt vs Benin, and Nigeria vs Mozambique. The Round of 16 matches will be played from 3–6 January 2026, followed by the quarter-finals on 9 and 10 January. The semi-finals are scheduled for 13 January, before the tournament concludes with the final in Rabat on 18 January, where the new champions of Africa will be crowned.
