AFCON 2025 Group breakdown

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will start on Sunday, 21^st of December, and here, we take a look at all the 24 countries that will be participating in the showpiece, and their styles, best players, and all

Group A (Morocco, with the hosts joined by Mali, Zambia, and Comoros)

Morocco carry the weight of home advantage, Mali bring consistency and flair, Zambia arrive with ambition rooted in past glory and Comoros seek to prove their rise is no fluke.

MOROCCO – The Atlas Lions’ Homecoming

- Afcon Pedigree: Champions in 1976

- Finals Appearances: 20^th

Popular name: Atlas Lions

Morocco enter as hosts and continental contenders. With a squad stacked with European stars and a tactical identity forged in recent World Cup success, the Atlas Lions are expected to dominate. The pressure of home soil is immense, but so is the opportunity to deliver a historic triumph.

Leading scorer: 7 - Brahim Diaz

Captain: Achraf Hakimi, defender

Coach: Walid Regragui (MAR)

Rankings: 1 Africa, 11 world

Morocco squad

Goalkeepers: Yassine Bounou (Al-Hilal / Saudi Arabia), Munir El Kajoui (RS Berkane), El Mehdi Al Harrar (Raja CA)

Defenders : Achraf Hakimi (PSG), Mohamed Chibi (Pyramids FC / Egypt), Jawad El Yamiq (Al-Najma SC / Saudi Arabia), Roman Saïss (Al-Sadd SC / Qatar), Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal (Amiens SC / Ligue 2), Nayef Aguerd (Olympique de Marseille), Adam Masina (Torino FC / Italy), Noussair Mazraoui (Manchester United / England), Anass Salah-Eddine (PSV Eindhoven / Netherlands)

Midfielders: Oussama Targhalline (Feyenoord Rotterdam/Netherlands), Sofyan Amrabat (Betis Sevilla/Spain), Ismael Saibari (PSV Eindhoven/Netherlands), Neil El Aynaoui (AS Roma/Italy), Bilal El Khannouss (VfB Stuttgart/Germany), Azzedine Ounahi (Girona FC/Spain)

Forwards : Brahim Diaz (Real Madrid / Spain), Ilias Akhomach (Villarreal CF / Spain), Chemsdine Talbi (Sunderland AFC / England), Youssef En-Nesyri (Fenerbahce), Ayoub El Kaabi (Olympiakos / Greece), Soufiane Rahimi (Al-Ain / United Arab Emirates), Abdessamad Ezzalzouli (Betis Seville / Spain), Eliesse Ben Seghir (Monaco)

MALI – The Eagles’ Consistency

- Afcon Pedigree: Runners-up in 1972

Qualifying: Group I winners

Leading scorer: 3 - Nene Dorgeles

Captain: Hamari Traore, defender

Coach: Tom Saintfiet (BEL)

Rankings: 8 Africa, 54 world

Previous appearances: 13

Popular name: Eagles

Mali squad

Goalkeepers: Djigui Diarra (Young Africans), Ismael Diawara (IK Sirius), Mamadou Samassa (Laval)

Defenders: Sikou Niakate (SC Braga), Abdoulaye Diaby (Grasshoppers), Woyo Coulibaly (Sassuolo), Fode Doucoure (Red Star), Hamari Traore (Paris FC), Ousmane Camara (Angers SCO), Mamadou Fofana (New England Revolution), Nathan Bassama (Baltika), Amadou Dante (Arouca)

Midfielders: Amadou Haidara (RB Leipzig), Lassana Coulibaly (Lecce), Mohamed Camara (Al-Saad / Qatar), Mamadou Sangaré (RC Lens), Aliou Dieng (Al-Ahly), Yves Bissouma (Tottenham), Mahamadou Doumbia (A Ittihad), Ibrahima Sissoko (VFL Bochum)

Forwards: Nene Dorgeles (Fenerbahce), Gaoussou Diarra (Feyenoord), El-Bilal Toure (Besiktas), Lassine Sinayoko (AJ Auxerre), Kamory Doumbia (Brest), Mamadou Doumbia (Watford), Gaoussou Diakite (Lausanne-Sport), Mamadou Camara (Laval)

ZAMBIA – The Chipolopolo’s Ambition

Afcon Pedigree: Champions in 2012

Zambia’s unforgettable 2012 triumph remains etched in Afcon folklore. Since then, they’ve battled to recapture that magic. With a blend of youthful energy and experienced campaigners, the Chipolopolo arrive in Morocco determined to prove they can rise again.

Leading scorer: 4 - Kennedy Musonda

Captain: Lubambo Musonda, defender

Coach: Moses Sichone (ZAM)

Rankings: 19 Africa, 90 world

Popular name: Chipolopolo (Copper Bullets)

Zambia squad

Goalkeepers: Lawrence Mulenga (Power Dynamos), Francis Mwansa (Zanaco), Willard Mwanza (Power Dynamos)

Defenders: Mathews Banda (Nkana), Dominic Chanda (Power Dynamos), Obino Chisala (Al Merrikh), Kabaso Chongo (Zesco United), David Hamansenya (Leganes), Gift Mphande (Zesco United), Frankie Musonda (Bahrain SC), Benson Sakala (Bohemians 1905), Stoppila Sunzu (Changchun Yatai)

Midfielders: Joseph Sabobo Banda (Hapoel Be'er Sheva), Lameck Banda (Lecce), Miguel Chaiwa (Hibernian), Wilson Chisala (Zanaco), Given Kalusa (FC Muza), Kings Kangwa (Hapoel Be'er Sheva), Joseph Liteta (Cagliari), Lubambo Musonda (FC Magdeburg), Pascal Phiri (Zesco United), Fashion Sakala (Al Fayha), David Simukonda (Zesco United), Owen Tembo (Power Dynamos)

Forwards: Patson Daka (Leicester City), Jack Lahne Kalichi (Austria Lustenau), Eliya Mandanji (Zanaco), Kennedy Musonda (Hapoel Ramat Gan).

COMOROS

- Afcon Pedigree: Debut in 2021, reached Round of 16

Comoros are the group’s underdogs, but their spirited performances in recent tournaments have made them fan favourites. Compact defensively and fearless in attack, they thrive on upsetting bigger names. Group A is their chance to show their rise is sustainable.

Comoros squad

Goalkeepers: Yannick Pandor (Francs Borains), Salim Ben Boina (Istres), Adel Anzimati (FC Ararat)

Defenders: Said Bakari (Sparta Rotterdam), Kassim M'Dahoma (Aubagne), Kenan Toibibou (Bravo), Ahmed Soilihi (Toulon), Idris Mohamed (Le Puy) Yannis Kari (Frejus Saint Raphael), Akim Abdallah (Guingamp), Bendjaloud Youssouf (FC Sochaux), Remy Vita (CD Tondela), Ismael Boura (Troyes)

Midfielders: Youssouf M'Changama (Al-Batin), Zaydou Youssouf (Al-Fateh / Saudi Arabia), Rayan Lutin (Amiens), Raouf Mroivili (Villefranche), Iyad Mohamed (Casa Pia), Aymeric Ahmed (Chateauroux) Yacine Bourhane (Aris Limassol)

Forwards: Rafiki Said (Standard de Liege), Myziane Maolida (Al Kholood), Faiz Selemani (Qatar SC), Aboubacar Ali Abdallah (Francs Borains), El Fardou Ben Mohamed (Zemun), Zaïd Amir (Istres)

GROUP DYNAMICS

- Favourites: Morocco, with home advantage and star power.

- Challenger: Mali, consistent performers hungry for a breakthrough.

- Wild Card: Zambia, capable of rekindling past glory.

- Underdog: Comoros, fearless and unpredictable.

Group B (Egypt, South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe)

EGYPT — Pharaohs in pursuit of permanence

Egypt enter every Afcon with the weight of legacy and the expectation of control. Their identity is defined by tournament craft: measured tempo, structure, and ruthless exploitation of moments. In Group B, the Pharaohs aim to assert authority early, turning disciplined phases into scoreboard pressure.

- Afcon pedigree: Record seven titles; continental standard-setters

Leading scorer: 4 - Mahmoud 'Trezeguet' Hassan

Captain: Mohamed Salah, forward

Coach: Hossam Hassan (EGY)

Rankings: 3 Africa, 34 world

Best placing: Champions 1957, 1959, 1986, 1998, 2006, 2008, 2010

Most goals scored: Nigeria 6-3 (1963)

Popular name: Pharaohs

Squad

Goalkeepers: Mohamed El-Shenawy (Al Ahly), Ahmed El-Shenawy (Pyramids FC), Mostafa Shobeir (Al Ahly), Mohamed Sobhi (Zamalek)

Defenders: Rami Rabia (Al-Ain / United Arab Emirates), Mohamed Hany (Al Ahly), Yasser Brahim (Al Ahly), Khaled Sobhi (Al Masry), Ahmed Eid (Al Masry), Hossam Abdelmaguid (Zamalek), Mohamed Ismail (Zamalek), Ahmed Fatouh (Zamalek), Mohamed Hamdy (Al Ahly)

Midfielders: Marwan Attia (Al Ahly), Hamdy Fathi (Al Wakrah), Mohanad Lasheen (Pyramids FC), Mahmoud Saber (Pyramids FC), Mohamed Shehata (Zamalek), Emam Ashour (Al Ahly), Ahmed Sayed Zizo (Al Ahly), Mahmoud Trezeguet (Al Ahly), Ibrahim Adel (Al Jazira), Mostafa Fathi (Pyramids FC)

Forwards: Mohamed Salah (Liverpool), Omar Marmoush (Manchester City), Mostafa Mohamed (FC Nantes), Salah Mohsen (Al Masry), Osama Faisal (Bank El Ahly)

SOUTH AFRICA — Bafana Bafana’s tactical clarity

South Africa bring organisation and repeatability. Their strength lies in compact spacing, smart pressing triggers, and transitions that punish loose structure. Opening the group against Angola gives them a platform to set rhythm and command the narrative from day one.

- Afcon pedigree: Champions in 1996; consistent finalists

Leading scorer: 3 - Teboho Mokoena

Captain: Ronwen Williams, goalkeeper

Coach: Hugo Broos (BEL)

Rankings: 11 Africa, 61 world

Popular name: Bafana Bafana (The Boys)

Squad

Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns), Ricardo Goss (Siwelele), Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates)

Defenders: Khuliso Mudau (Mamelodi Sundowns), Thabang Matuludi (Polokwane City), Tylon Smith (Queens Park Rangers), Nkosinathi Sibisi (Orlando Pirates), Aubrey Modiba (Mamelodi Sundowns), Khulamani Ndamane (TS Galaxy), Siyabonga Ngezana (FCSB), Samukele Kabini (Molde), Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Orlando Pirates)

Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena (Mamelodi Sundowns), Bathusi Aubaas (Mamelodi Sundowns), Thalente Mbatha (Orlando Pirates), Sphephelo Sithole (Tondela)

Forwards: Oswin Appollis (Orlando Pirates), Mohau Nkota (Al Ettifaq), Tshepang Moremi (Orlando Pirates), Evidence Makgopa (Orlando Pirates), Lyle Foster (Burnley), Sipho Mbule (Orlando Pirates), Elias Mokwana (Al Hazem), Shandre Campbell (Club Bruges), Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates)

ANGOLA — Palancas Negras

Leading scorers: 2 - Mabululu, Milson, Zini

Captain: Fredy, midfielder

Coach: Patrice Beaumelle (FRA)

Rankings: 18 Africa, 89 world

Best placing: Quarterfinalists 2008, 2010, 2024

Squad

Goalkeepers: Neblu (Primeiro de Agosto), Hugo Marques (Petro de Luanda), Signori Antonio (Etoile Carouge)

Defenders: Rui Modesto (Udinese), Eddie Afonso (Petro de Luanda), To Carneiro (FAR Rabat), Nurio Fortuna (Volos), Pedro Bondo (Famalicao), David Carmo (Real Oviedo), Jonathan Buatu (Gil Vicente), Kilandola Gaspar (Lecce), Clinton Mata (Olympique Lyonnais)

Midfielders: Beni Mukendi (Guimaraes), Show (Kocaelispor), Fredy (Bodrumspor), Maestro (Alanyaspor), Kelliano (Akhmat Grozny), Mario Balburdia (Boluspor)

Forwards: Zito Luvumbo (Cagliari), Manuel Benson (Swansea City), Milson (Red Star Belgrade), Chico Banza (Zamalek SC), Gelson Dala (Al-Wakrah), Randy Nteka (Rayo Vallecano), Ary Papel (Al-Akhdar SC), Mabulu (Al-Ahli Tripoli SC), Mbala Zola (Pisa), Zine Salvador (AEK)

ZIMBABWE — Warriors built for the fight

- Afcon profile: Battle-tested finalists; aiming for consistency in outcomes

Leading scorer: 2 - Walter Musona

Captain: Marshall Munetsi, midfielder

Coach: Mario Marinica (ROM)

Rankings: 36 Africa, 129 world

Previous appearances: 5

Best placing: Never qualified for second round

Zimbabwe squad

Goalkeepers: Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants), Elvis Chipezeze (Magesi), Martin Mapisa (MWOS FC)

Defenders: Godknows Murwira (Scottland FC), Emmanuel Jalai (Dynamos FC), Sean Fusire (Sheffield Wednesday), Munashe Garananga (FC Copenhagen), Gerald Takwara (Al Ittihad Misurata SC Libya), Isheanesu Mauchi (Simba Bhora FC), Brandon Galloway (Plymouth Argyle), Teenage Hadebe (FC Cincinnati), Alec Mudimu (Flint Town United), Divine Lunga (Mamelodi Sundowns)

Midfielders: Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town), Jonah Fabisch (Erzegebirg Aue), Andrew Rinohmhota (Reading), Prosper Padera (SJK Seina Joki), Tawanda Chirewa (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Knowledge Musona (Scottland FC)

Forwards: Bill Antonio (KV Mechelen), Ishmael Wadi (CAPS United), Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell), Daniel Msendami (Marumo Gallants ), Prince Dube (Young Africans), Washington Navaya (TelOne), Macauley Bonne (Maldon & Tiptree), Junior Zindoga (TS Galaxy), Tadiwanasche Chakuchichi (Scottland FC)

GROUP DYNAMICS AND STAKES

- Favourites: Egypt and South Africa — pedigree, structure, and big-match durability.

- Wild cards: Angola and Zimbabwe — disciplined schemes, emotional intensity, and transitional danger.

Group C (continental heavyweights Nigeria and Tunisia, flanked by East Africa’s fiercely committed Uganda and Tanzania) Expect disciplined defending, razor-sharp transitions, and tight margins across fixtures as pedigreed favourites wrestle with stubborn challengers. Nigeria and Tunisia set the pace; Uganda and Tanzania arrive ready to disrupt it.

NIGERIA — The Super Eagles’ standard

- AFCON pedigree: Three titles; perennial contenders

Leading scorers: 2 - Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen

Captain: Wilfred Ndidi, midfielder

Coach: Eric Chelle (CIV)

Rankings: 5 Africa, 38 world

Best placing: Champions 1980, 1994, 2013

Popular name: Super Eagles

Squad

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa Utd), Amas Obasogie(Singida Black Stars), Francis Uzoho(Omonia)

Defenders: Calvin Bassey (Fulham), Semi Ajayi (Hull City), Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City), Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos), Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes), Zaidu Sanusi (Porto), Igoh Ogbu (Slavia Prague, Ryan Alebiosu (Blackburn Rovers)

Midfield: Alex Iwobi (Fulham), Frank Onyeka (Brentford), Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas), Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge), Tochukwu Nnadi (Zulte Waregem), Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio), Ebenezer Akinsanmiro (Pisa), Usman Muhammed (Ironi Tiberias)

Forwards: Chidera Ejuke (Sevilla), Akor Adams (Sevilla), Ademola Lookman (Atalanta), Samuel Chukwueze (Fulham), Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray), Moses Simon (Paris FC), Paul Onuachu (Trabzonspor), Cyriel Dessers (Panathinaikos), Salim Fago Lawal (Istra 1961).

TUNISIA — Carthage Eagles’ clinical assurance

Tunisia carry a reputation for control:compact structures, risk-managed possession, and ruthless exploitation of moments. Their consistency across AFCON cycles makes them hard to rattle, especially in cagey group games. Expect Tunisia to squeeze space, punish errors, and turn small advantages into decisive points.

- AFCON pedigree: Champions in 2004; serial qualifiers

Leading scorer: 2 - Ali Abdi

Captain: Ferjani Sassi, midfielder

Coach: Sami Trabelsi (TUN)

Rankings: 6 Africa, 40 world

Previous appearances: 21

Best placing: Champions 2004

Popular name: Carthage Eagles

Squad

Goalkeepers: Aymen Dahmen (CS Sfaxien), Bechir Ben Said (ES Tunis), Noureddine Farhati (Stade Tunisien), Sabri Ben Hassen (ES Sahel)

Defenders: Yassine Meriah (ES Tunis), Montassar Talbi (Lorient), Dylan Bronn (Servette), Adem Arous (Kasimpasa), Nader Ghandri (Akhmat Grozny), Mohamed Ben Ali (ES Tunis), Yan Valery (Sheffield Wednesday), Ali Abdi (Nice), Mortadha Ben Ouanes (Kasimpasa), Ali Maaloul (CS Sfaxien)

Midfielders: Ellyes Skhiri (Eintracht Frankfurt), Houssem Tka (ES Tunis), Ferjani Sassi (Al-Gharafa SC), Ismael Gharbi (FC Augsburg), Mohamed Belhadj Mahmoud (FC Lugano), Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane (Al Ahly FC), Hannibal Mejbri (Burnley)

Forwards: Elias Saad (FC Augsburg), Elias Achouri (FC Copenhagen), Sebastian Tounekti (Celtic), Firas Chaouat (Club Africain), Hazem Mastouri (Dinamo Makhachkala), Seifeddine Jaziri (Zamalek SC), Naim Sliti (Al-Shamal SC)

UGANDA — The Cranes

- AFCON profile: Emerging presence with rising belief

Leading scorer: 2 - Denis Omedi

Captain: Khalid Aucho, midfielder

Coach: Paul Put (BEL)

Rankings: 17 Africa, 85 world

Best placing: Runners-up 1978

Popular name: Cranes

Squad

Goalkeepers: Salim Magoola (Richards Bay), Denis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns), Nafian Alionzi (Mechal), Charles Lukwago (KCCA FC)

Defenders: Toby Sibbick (Burton Albion), Elio Caprodossi (FC Universitatae Cluj), Jordan Obita (Hibernian), Rogers Torach (Vipers SC), Aziz Kayondo (Slovan Liberec), Isaac Muleme (Viktoria Zizkov), Timothy Awany (FC Ashdod), David Owori (SC Villa), Hilary Mukundane (Vipers SC)

Midfielders: Kenneth Semakula (Al Adalah), Khalid Aucho (Singida Black Stars SC), Ronald Ssekiganda (APR FC), Bobosi Byaruhanga (Oakland Roots), Baba Alhassan (FCSB)

Forwards: Allan Okello (Vipers SC), Melvyn Lorenzen (Muangthong United), Travis Mutyaba (CS Sfaxien), Denis Omedi (APR FC), Rogers Mato (FK Vardar), Reagan Mpande (SC Villa), Jude Ssemugabi (Jamus FC), Uche Ikpeazu (St Johnstone), Steven Mukwala (Simba SC), James Bogere (Masaka Sunshine), Ivan Ahimbisibwe (KCCA FC), Shafiq Kwikiriza (KCCA FC)

TANZANIA — Taifa Stars.

- AFCON profile: Building experience, sharpening identity

Leading scorers: 2 - Simon Msuva, Feisal Salum

Captain: Mbwana Samatta, forward

Coach: Miguel Gamondi (ARG)

Rankings: 27 Africa, 112 world

Previous appearances: 3

Best placing: Never past first round

Squad

Goalkeepers: Yakoub Suleiman (Simba SC), Hussein Masalanga (Singida BS), Zuberi Foba (Azam FC)

Defenders: Bakari Mwamnyeto (Young Africans), Shomari Kapombe (Simba SC), Lusajo Mwaikenda (Azam FC), Mohamed Hussein (Young Africans), Nickson Kibabage (Singida BS), Alphonse Mabula (Shamakhi), Wilson Nangu (Simba SC)

Midfielders: Novatus Miroshi (Göztepe), Kelvin Nashon (Pamba Jiji), Pascal Msindo (Azam FC), Ibrahim Abdulla (Young Africans), Haji Mnoga (Salford City), Dickson Job (Young Africans), Habibu Idd (Singida BS)

Forwards: Tarryn Allarakhia (Rochdale), Charles M'Mombwa (Floriana), Yusuph Kagoma (Simba SC), Feisal Salum (Azam FC), Morice Abraham (Simba SC), Abdul Suleiman (Azam FC), Iddi Suleiman (Azam FC), Kibu Dennis (Simba SC), Ally Samatta (Le Havre), Kelvin John (Aalborg), Simon Msuva (Al-Talaba)

GROUP DYNAMICS AND STAKES

- Favourites: Nigeria and Tunisia — depth, pedigree, and repeatability of performances.

- Wild cards: Uganda and Tanzania — tenacity, transitions, and set-piece value.

Group D (Senegal, recent champions, DR Congo, Benin, Botswana)

SENEGAL – Lions of Teranga

- AFCON Pedigree: Winners in 2021

Leading scorer: 3 - Habib Diarra, Sadio Mane

Captain: Kalidou Koulibaly, defender

Coach: Pape Thiaw (SEN)

Rankings: 2 Africa, 19 world

Best placing: Champions 2022

Squad

Goalkeepers: Edouard Mendy (Al Ahli), Yehvann Diouf (Nice), Mory Diaw (Le Havre)

Defenders: Ilay Camara (Anderlecht), Krépin Diatta (AS Monaco), Antoine Mendy (Nice), Kalidou Koulibaly (Al Hilal), Abdoulaye Sek (Maccabi Haifa), Moussa Niakhate (Lyon), Mamadou Sarr (Strasbourg), El-Hadji Malick Diouf (West Ham), Ismail Jakobs (Galatasaray)

Midfielders: Idrissa Gana Gueye (Everton), Habib Diarra (Sunderland), Pape Matar Sarr (Tottenham), Pape Alassane Gueye (Villarreal), Lamine Camara (AS Monaco), Pathe Ciss (Rayo Vallecano)

Forwards: Sadio Mane (Al Nassr), Iliman Ndiaye (Everton), Nicolas Jackson (Bayern Munich), Habib Diallo (Metz), Boulaye Dia (Lazio), Cheikh T Sabaly (Metz), Assane Diao (Como), Ibrahim Mbaye (PSG), Cherif Ndiaye (Samsunspor), Ismaila Sarr (Crystal Palace)

DR CONGO – The Leopards’ Legacy

- AFCON Pedigree: Winners in 1968 and 1974

- Finals Appearances: 21st

Leading scorer: 2 - Meschak Elia

Captain: Chancel Mbemba, defender

Coach: Sebastien Desabre (FRA)

Rankings: 9 Africa, 56 world

Previous appearances: 20

Best placing: Champions 1968, 1974

Popular name: Leopards

Goalkeepers: Matthieu Epolo (Standard de Liege), Timothy Fayulu (Noah), Lionel Mpasi (Le Havre)

Defenders: Rocky Bushiri (Hibernian), Gedeon Kalulu (Aris Limassol), Steve Kapuadi (Legia Warsaw), Joris Kayembe (Genk), Arthur Masuaku (Sunderland), Chancel Mbemba (Lille), Axel Tuanzebe (Burnley), Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham)

Midfielders: Theo Bongonda (Spartak Moscow), Michel-Ange Balikwisha (Celtic), Brian Cipenga (Castellon), Edo Kayembe (Watford), Nathanaol Mbuku (Montpellier), Samuel Moutoussamy (Atromitos), Ngal'ayel Mukau (Lille), Charles Pickel (Espanyol), Noah Sadiki (Sunderland), Mario Stroeykens (Anderlecht)

Forwards: Cedric Bakambu (Betis), Simon Banza (Al-Jazeera), Samuel Essende (Augsburg), Meschack Elia (Alanyaspor), Fiston Mayele (Pyramids)

BENIN – The Stallions of Surprise

- AFCON Pedigree: Quarterfinalists in 2019

- Finals Appearances: 5th

Leading scorers: 2 - Andreas Hountondji, Steve Mounie

Captain: Mounie, forward

Coach: Gernot Rohr (GER)

Rankings: 20 Africa, 92 world

Best placing: Quarterfinals 2019

Popular name: Cheetahs

Squad

Goalkeepers: Marcel Dandjinou (Loto), Kassifa Saturnin Allagbe (Chaurey), Serge Obassa (Remo Stars)

Defenders: Samadou Attidjikou (Smouha), Charlemagne Azongnitode (Oulu), Rodrigue Fassinnou (Coton FC), David Kiki (FCSB), Rachid Moumini (Sumqayit FK), Tamimou Ouorou (no club), Yohan Roche (Petrolul), Mohamed Tijani (Yverdon), Olivier Verdon (Ludogorets)

Midfielders: Mattéo Ahlinvi (Arsenal / England), Mariano Ahouangbo (NK Olimpija Ljubljana / Slovenia), Ghislain Ahoudo (AS Gabes), Sessi d'Almeida (Neftci Baku / Azerbaijan), Dodo Dokou (Leixoes), Imourane Hassane (Grasshoppers), Rodrigue Kossi (Agadir)

Forwards: Adam Akimey (Helsingborgs IF), Rodolfo Aloko (Kustosija), Romaric Amoussou (Asec Mimosas), Jodel Dossou (L'US Pays du Valois), Steve Mounie (Alanyaspor), Junior Olaitan (Goztepe), Razack Rachidou (Kustosija), Olatoundji Tessilimi (SJK Seinajoki), Aiyegun Tosin (Lorient)

BOTSWANA – The Zebras’ Return

- AFCON Pedigree: Group stage in 2012

- Finals Appearances: 2nd

Botswana return to AFCON after more than a decade. As underdogs, they carry little pressure but immense pride. Their goal is simple: compete fiercely, earn respect and perhaps deliver a shock result that will echo across Africa.

Leading scorer: None

Captain: Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, defender

Coach: Morena Ramoreboli (RSA)

Rankings: 40 Africa, 138 world

Previous appearance: 1

Best placing: First round

Popular name: Zebras

Squad

Goalkeepers: Lesenya Malapela (Orapa United), Keoagile Kgosipula (Orapa United), Goitseone Phoko (Jwaneng Galaxy), Kabelo Dambe (Township Rollers)

Defenders: Alford Velaphi (Gaborone United), Mothusi Johnson (Gaborone United), Mosha Gaolaolwe (Township Rollers), Thatayaone Ditlhokwe (Al Ittihad), Shanganani Ngandane (Mochudi Centre Chiefs), Chicco Molefe (Jwaneng Galaxy), Thabo Leinanyane (Jwaneng Galaxy), Tebogo Kopelang (Jwaneng Galaxy)

Midfielders: Godiraone Modingwane (BDF XI), Olebogeng Ramotse (Jwaneng Galaxy), Gape Mohutsiwa (McOran), Omphile Vissagie (Township Rollers), Gilbert Baruti (Mochudi Centre Chiefs), Mothusi Cooper (Township Rollers), Lebogang Ditsile (Gaborone United), Thabo Maponda (Gaborone United), Monty Enosa (Mochudi Centre Chiefs), Roketso Majafi (Orapa United), Omphile Ramoagi (Gaborone United)

Forwards: Omaatla Kebatho (Jwaneng Galaxy), Kabelo Seakanyeng (MAS Fes), Thabang Sesinyi (Jwaneng Galaxy), Tumisang Orebonye (Wydad AC), Segolame Boye (SA Flamingoes), Eric Ookame (Orapa United), Thabang Balatlheng (Township Rollers), Losika Ratshukudu (Ubuntu FC / South Africa), Thatayaone Kgamanyane (Gaborone United)

GROUP DYNAMICS

Favourites: Senegal, with their star-studded squad and recent title.

Challenger: DR Congo, with pedigree and ambition.

Wild Card: Benin, capable of upsetting giants.

Underdog: Botswana, driven by pride and hunger.

Group E (Algeria and Burkina Faso enter as favourites Equatorial Guinea lurk as a dangerous outsider, while Sudan seek to rekindle past glory)

ALGERIA – The Fennecs’ Redemption Quest

- AFCON Pedigree: Winners in 1990 and 2019

Leading scorer: 4 - Amine Gouiri

Captain: Riyad Mahrez, midfielder

Coach: Vladimir Petkovic (BIH)

Rankings: 4 Africa, 35 world

Best placing: Champions 1990, 2019

Popular name: Desert Foxes

Goalkeepers: Oussama Benbot (USM Alger), Anthony Mandrea (SM Caen), Luca Zidane (Granada)

Defenders: Rayan Ait-Nouri (Manchester City), Rafik Belghali (Hellas Verona), Youcef Atal (Al Saad), Mehdi Dorval (Bari), Aissa Mandi (Lille), Samir Chergui (Paris FC), Mohamed Tougai (ES Tunis), Ramy Bensebaini (Dortmund), Zinedine Belaid (US Kabylie), Jaouen Hadjam (Young Boys)

Midfielders: Ismael Bennacer (Dinamo Zagreb), Ramiz Zerrouki (FC Twente), Hicham Boudaoui (Nice), Fares Chaibi (Eintracht Frankfurt), Houssem Aouar (Al Ittihad), Ibrahim Maza (Bayer Leverkusen), Adem Zorgane (Royale Union Saint-Gilloise)

Forwards: Mohamed Amoura (Wolfsburg), Baghdad Bounedjah (Al Shamal), Adil Boulbina (Al Duhail), Moncef Bakrar (Dinamo Zagreb), Redouane Berkane (Al Wakrah), Anis Hadj Moussa (Feyenoord), Ilan Kebbal (Paris FC), Riyad Mahrez (Al Ahli)

BURKINA FASO – The Stallions’ Charge

- AFCON Pedigree: Runners-up in 2013

Leading scorers: 2 - Dango Ouattara, Lassina Traore

Captain: Bertrand Traore, forward

Coach: Brama Traore (BUR)

Rankings: 12 Africa, 62 world

Best placing: Runners-up 2013

Squad

Goalkeepers: Herve Koffi (Angers), Kylian Nikiema (ADO Den Haag), Farid Ouedraogo (Al Hilal)

Defenders: Abdoul Ayinde (KAA Gent), Issoufou Dayo (Umm Salal), Nasser Djiga (Rangers), Issa Kabore (Wrexham), Arsene Kouassi (Lorient), Adamo Nagalo (PSV), Edmond Tapsoba (Bayer Leverkusen), Steeve Yago (Aris Limassol)

Midfielders: Cedric Badolo (Spartak Trnava), Stéphane Aziz Ki (Wydad Casablanca), Ismaila Ouedraogo (Odense), Saidou Simpore (National Bank), Blati Touré (Pyramids), Gustavo Sangaré (Noah), Mohamed Zoungrana (Mouloudia Alger)

Forwards: Ousseni Bouda (San Jose Earthquakes), Cyriaque Irie (Freiburg), Pierre Kabore (Hearts), Georgi Minoungou (Seattle Sounders), Dango Ouattara (Brentford), Bertrand Traore (Sunderland), Lassina Traore (Shakhtar)

EQUATORIAL GUINEA – The Dark Horses

- AFCON Pedigree: Fourth place in 2015

- Finals Appearances: 5th

Leading scorer: 2 - Luis Nlavo

Captain: Emilio Nsue, forward

Coach: Juan Micha (GEQ)

Rankings: 21 Africa, 97 world

Best placing: Semifinals 2015

Popular name: National Thunder

Squad

Goalkeepers: Jesus Owono (FC Andorra), Manuel Sapunga (Sekhukhune), Aitor Embela (Lorca)

Defenders: Esteban Orozco (FC Arges), Marvin Anieboh (San Sebastian Reyes), Carlos Akapo (Amazonas), Saul Coco (Torino), Basilio Ndong (KF Tirana), Michel Ngaah (Real Avila CF), Néstor Senra (Huelva / D4, Spain), Charles Ondo (Portland Timbers / USA), Javier Mum (Muza FC)

Midfielders: Jannick Buyla (Numancia), Omar Mascarell (Mallorca), Pablo Ganet (Persita), Alex Masogo (Beroe), Alex Balboa (CD Lugo), Jose Machin (Monza), Pedro Obiang (Monza), Santiago Eneme (Sparta Prague)

Forwards: Iban Salvador (Wisla Plock), Josete Miranda (PS Kalamata), Gael Akogo (Recreativo Granada), Joel Nabil (Nantes II), Luismi Nlavo (Shanghai Shenhua), Dorian Junior (Viborg FF), Loren Zuniga (Real Madrid Castilla), Emilio Nsue (CF Intercity

SUDAN – Nostalgia and Hope

- AFCON Pedigree: Winners in 1970

- Finals Appearances: 10th

Captain: Bakhit Khamis, defender

Coach: Kwesi Appiah (GHA)

Rankings: 31 Africa, 118 world

Previous appearances: 9

Best placing: Champions 1970

Most goals scored: Nigeria 4-0 (1963)

Popular name: Nile Crocodiles

Squad

Goalkeepers: Ali Aboeshren (Al Hilal OMD), Mohamed Elnour Abooja (Al-Merrikh SC), Monged Elneel (El-Merriekh FC Bentiu)

Defenders: Mohamed Saaed (Al Hilal OMD), Altayeb Abdelrazig (Al Hilal OMD), Mustafa Karshom (Al Hilal OMD, Yasser Awad (Al Hilal OMD), Bakhit Khamis (Al Ahli Tripoli), Mazin Mohamedein (Al Akhdar), Awad Zaid (Al-Merrikh SC), Ahmed Abdelmonem (Al Hilal OMD), Mohamed Kesra (Al-Merrikh SC)

Midfielders: Abuaagla Abdalla (Al Ahly/Egypt), Waliedin Khidhir (Al Ahly), Abdelrazig Omer (Al Hilal OMD), Ammar Tayfour (CS Sfax), Salaheldin Adil (Al Hilal OMD), Musa Hussain (Al-Merrikh SC/Rwanda), Sheddy Ezeldin (FC Den Bosch), Amar Yunis (Avondale FC/Australia)

Forwards: Yasser Mozamil (Al Hilal OMD/Rwanda), Mohamed Abdelrhman (Al Hilal OMD), John Mano (Al Ahli Tripoli), Mohamed Eisa (Uthai Thani FC), Elgozoli Hussain (Al-Merrikh SC), Abobaker Eisa (Chonburi FC), Mohamed Teya (Al-Merrikh SC)

GROUP DYNAMICS

- Favourites: Algeria and Burkina Faso, with pedigree and consistency.

- Wild Card: Equatorial Guinea, capable of upsetting giants.

- Underdog: Sudan, driven by history and heart.

Group F. Dubbed the “Group of Death”, this pool brings together reigning champions Ivory coast, continental heavyweights, Cameroun unpredictable challengers, Gabon and hungry underdogs, Mazambique. Matches in Marrakech and Agadir promise drama, flair, and unforgettable storylines.

Ivory Coast – The Champions’ Burden

- Afcon Pedigree: 3 titles (1992, 2015, 2023)

- Fifa Ranking:46

Ivory Coast arrive as defending champions, carrying the weight of expectation. Their squad blends seasoned leaders with emerging stars, making them both feared and admired. Every opponent will raise their game against the Elephants, but their depth and confidence could see them march on.

Leading scorers: 3 - Oumar Diakite, Jean-Philippe Krasso

Captain: Franck Kessie, midfielder

Coach: Emerse Fae (CIV)

Rankings: 7 Africa, 42 world

Best placing: Champions 1992, 2015, 2024

Popular name: Elephants

Squad

Goalkeepers: Yahia Fofana (Caykur Rizespor), Mohamed Kone (Charleroi), Alban Lafont (Panathinaikos)

Defenders: Emmanuel Agbadou (Wolves), Willy Boly (Nottingham Forest), Ousmane Diomande (Sporting CP), Guela Doue (Strasbourg), Ghislain Konan (Gil Vicente), Odilon Kossounou (Atalanta), Evan Ndicka (AS Roma), Christopher Operi (Istanbul Basaksehir), Armel Zohouri (FC Iberia)

Midfielders: Seko Fofana (Rennes), Jean-Philippe Gbamin (FC Metz), Christ Inao Oulai (Trabzonspor), Franck Kessie (Al-Ahli), Ibrahim Sangare (Nottingham Forest), Jean-Michael Seri (NK Maribor)

Forwards: Vakoun Bayo (Udinese), Oumar Diakite (Cercle Brugge), Amad Diallo (Manchester United), Yan Diomande (RB Leipzig), Sebastien Haller (FC Utrecht), Jean-Philippe Krasso (Paris FC), Bazoumana Toure (Hoffenheim), Wilfried Zaha (Charlotte).

Cameroon – Indomitable Tradition

- Afcon Pedigree: 5 titles (1984, 1988, 2000, 2002, 2017)

- Fifa Ranking: 49

Cameroon’s name is synonymous with Afcon glory. The Indomitable Lions thrive in high-pressure tournaments, their physicality and resilience unmatched. With five titles already, they enter Group F determined to remind Africa that their roar still echoes across the continent.

Leading scorer: 3 - Vincent Aboubakar

Captain: Bryan Mbeumo, forward

Coach: David Pagou (CMR)

Rankings: 10 Africa, 57 world

Previous appearances: 21

Best placing: Champions 1984, 1988, 2000, 2002, 2017

Squad

Goalkeepers: Devis Epassy (Dinamo Bucharest), Simon Omossola (Saint-Éloi Lupopo), Simon Ngapandouetnbu (Montpellier), Edouard Sombang (Colombe Sport)

Defenders: Samuel Kotto (La Gantoise), Gerzino Nyamsi (Lokomotiv Moscow), Jean-Charles Castelletto (Al-Duhail), Nouhou Tolo (Seattle Sounders), Flavien Enzo Boyomo (Osasuna), Mahamadou Nagida (Rennes), Christopher Wooh (Spartak Moscow), Junior Tchamadeu (Stoke City), Darlin Yongwa (Lorient)

Midfielders: Martin Ndzie (Rapid Vienna), Carlos Baleba (Brighton), Arthur Avom (Lorient), Eric-Junior Dina Ebimbe (Brest), Brice Ambina (Valerenga), Jean Junior Onana (Genoa), Olivier Kemen (Istanbul Basaksehir)

Forwards: Bryan Mbeumo (Manchester United), Christian Bassogog (Al Okhdood), Georges-Kevin N'Koudou (Al-Diraiyah), Danny Namaso (Auxerre), Frank Magri (Toulouse), Karl Etta Eyong (Levante, Christian Kofane (Bayer Leverkusen), Patrick Soko (Almeria)

Gabon – The Dark Horses

- Afcon Pedigree: 9 appearances, best finish – quarterfinals (1996, 2012)

- Fifa Ranking: 84

Leading scorers: 2- Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Shavy Babicka

Captain: Bruno Ecuele, defender

Coach: Thierry Mouyouma (GAB)

Rankings: 15 Africa, 78 world

Previous appearances: 8

Best placings: Quarterfinals 1996, 2012

Popular name: Panthers

Squad

Goalkeepers: Loyce Mbaba (Stella Club), Anse Ngoubi Demba (Mosta FC), Junior Bekale (Hafia FC)

Defenders: Anthony Oyono (Frosinone), Jeremy Oyono (Frosinone), Johann Obiang (Orleans), Aaron Appindangoye (Sivasspor), Bruno Ecuele Manga (Paris 13 Atletico), Alexis Moucketou (Aris Limassol), Mick Onfia (Hafia FC), Jonathan Do Marcolino (Bourg-en-Bresse), Uriel-Michel Mboula (Metz), Jacques Ekomie (Angers)

Midfielders: Mario Lemina (Galatasaray), Samake Nze (Stade d'Abidjan), Guelor Kanga (Esenler Erokspor), Eric Gocoum (Gol Gohar Sirjan FC), André Poko (Amed SK), Ruben Loufilou (Al Mina'a SC), Didier Ndong (Esteghlal)

Forwards: Shavy Babicka (Toulouse), Teddy Averlant (Amiens), Denis Bouanga (LAFC), Edlin Essang-Matouti (USM Khenchela), Malick Evouna (AS Mangasport Moanda), Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Marseille), Royce Openda (Bordeaux), Jim Allevinah (Angers)

Mozambique – Hungry Underdogs

- Afcon Pedigree: 6 appearances, never beyond group stage

- Fifa Ranking: 96

Leading scorers: 3 - Stanley Ratifo

Captain: Mexer, defender

Coach: Chiquinho Conde (MOZ)

Rankings: 22 Africa, 102 world

Previous appearances: 5

Best placings: First round

Popular name: Mambas

Squad

Goalkeepers: Ernani Siluane (Black Bulls), Ivane Urrubal (UD Songo), Kimiss Zavala (Maritimo)

Defenders: Bruno Langa (Paphos), Oscar Cherene (UD Songo), Edmilson Dove (Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya), Nanani (UD Songo), Feliciano Jone (Black Bulls), Diogo Cabral (Santa Clara), Reinildo Mandava (Sunderland), Mexer (Keciorengucu), Fernando Chambuco (Black Bulls)

Midfielders: Joao Bonde (Ferroviario), Ricardo Guimaraes (Zira FK), Manuel Kambala (Polokwane City), Keyns Abdala (Chaves), Alfonso Amade (Dunfermline)

Forwards: Geny Catamo (Sporting CP), Witness Quembo (CD Nacional), Elias Pelembe (UD Songo), Chamito Alfandega (AC Viseu U23), Stanley Ratifo (Chemie Leipzig), Faisal Bangal (Mestre), Melque Alexandre (UD Songo), Gildo Vilanculos (Tadamon Sour)

GROUP F DYNAMICS

Ivory Coast and Cameroon are favourites, but Gabon’s unpredictability and Mozambique’s hunger ensure no fixture is straightforward. Every clash is high-stakes, every point precious. Expect fireworks, upsets, and the kind of drama that defines Afcon folklore.

Group F is more than just a collection of teams — it’s a collision of history, ambition, and raw emotion. Whether it’s Ivory Coast defending their crown, Cameroon chasing a sixth title, Gabon plotting an upset, or Mozambique seeking their breakthrough, this group embodies the essence of African football: passion, unpredictability, and spectacle.