AFCON 2025 Heats Up: Historic Wins, Dramatic Comebacks, and Knockout Spots Secured

December 28, 2025

The Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco continues to deliver unforgettable moments as the group stage reaches its climax, with underdogs shining, superstars stepping up, and the race for knockout places intensifying across the continent's premier football spectacle.

Mozambique's Milestone: First-Ever AFCON Victory Ends 40-Year Drought

In a thrilling encounter in Agadir, Mozambique stunned Gabon 3-2 to claim their maiden win at the Africa Cup of Nations finals after 17 attempts spanning four decades. Goals from Faisal Bangal, Geny Catamo, and Diogo Calila propelled the Mambas to three vital points in Group F, leaving Gabon on the brink of elimination with zero points from two games.

The 42-year-old veteran Elias Pelembe inspired the comeback, marking a historic afternoon for southern African football as Mozambique ended a wait dating back to their 1986 debut.

Sudan Springs Surprise: Shock Win Over Equatorial Guinea

Sudan pulled off one of the tournament's biggest upsets, defeating Equatorial Guinea 1-0 courtesy of an own goal by Saul Coco. The victory earns Sudan their first three points in Group E, keeping hopes alive for a last-16 berth while denting the Nzalang Nacional's ambitions.

Nigeria Edges Thriller to Book Knockout Spot

The Super Eagles of Nigeria secured their place in the round of 16 with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Tunisia in Fez. Victor Osimhen opened the scoring with a rare AFCON goal, followed by strikes from Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman. Tunisia mounted a late rally through Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi, but Nigeria held firm to top Group C.

Other Standout Results: Defending Champs and Favorites Advance

Reigning champions Ivory Coast kicked off their title defense strongly, while Cameroon notched a historic first-ever AFCON win over Gabon. Algeria dominated Sudan 3-0 earlier in the week, with Riyad Mahrez extending his scoring record, and Burkina Faso staged a sensational stoppage-time comeback to beat Equatorial Guinea 2-1.

Egypt, powered by Mohamed Salah's penalties and late heroics, became the first team to qualify for the knockouts, maintaining a perfect record in Group B despite playing with 10 men against South Africa.

Hosts Morocco remain unbeaten in Group A after draws and an opening win, setting up crucial final group clashes.

Underdog Magic Keeps Tournament Alive

Benin's first-ever finals win over Botswana and draws in tightly contested groups underscore AFCON's trademark unpredictability. With matches like Ivory Coast vs. Cameroon already delivering drama, the festive timing has brought global attention to stars like Salah, Osimhen, Achraf Hakimi, and Sadio Mané competing at peak form.

Final Group Games Loom: Decisive Battles Ahead

Today's fixtures include high-stakes clashes such as Ivory Coast facing Cameroon and more action across venues in Rabat, Casablanca, Agadir, and Marrakech. Tomorrow's slate features Angola vs. Egypt, Zimbabwe vs. South Africa, Zambia vs. Morocco, and Comoros vs. Mali—matches that will seal knockout qualifications.

As the tournament heads into the new year, the blend of established powerhouses and rising forces ensures more twists before the January 18 final in Rabat.

In a competition renowned for passion and surprises, AFCON 2025 is proving why it's Africa's ultimate football celebration—where history is made, dreams are realized, and the beautiful game unites a continent.