AFCON 2025: Round of 16 Line-up Finalised as Tanzania Make History
Photo Credit: AFP via The Hindu
Abidjan: The 2025 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has reached a crucial stage, with the line-up for the round of 16 now confirmed even before the conclusion of the final group-stage fixtures. While a few group matches are still to be played, the identities of all teams progressing to the knockout phase have been locked, setting the stage for an exciting pre-quarterfinal round.
Tournament heavyweights Morocco, Egypt and Nigeria comfortably topped their respective groups to secure early qualification. The standout story of the group stage, however, belongs to Tanzania, who reached the knockout rounds of AFCON for the first time in their history after holding Tunisia to a 1-1 draw. The result proved enough to see Tanzania advance as one of the best third-placed teams.
Qualified Teams: Group-wise Breakdown
A total of 16 teams have advanced from the six groups, comprising the top two teams from each group along with the four best third-placed sides.
- Group A: Morocco, Mali
- Group B: Egypt, South Africa
- Group C: Nigeria, Tunisia, Tanzania
- Group D: Senegal, Congo, Benin
- Group E: Algeria, Burkina Faso, Sudan
- Group F: Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Mozambique
The qualification of three teams from Groups C, D, E and F highlights the competitiveness of the tournament, with several matches decided by fine margins.
AFCON 2025 Round of 16: Tentative Schedule
While the knockout teams are confirmed, the exact fixtures will be finalised after the completion of the remaining Group E and Group F matches. Based on current standings, the tentative round of 16 schedule is as follows:
- January 3: Senegal vs Runner-up Group E
- January 3: Mali vs Tunisia
- January 4: Morocco vs Tanzania
- January 4: South Africa vs Runner-up Group F
- January 5: Egypt vs Benin
- January 5: Nigeria vs Third-placed Group F team
- January 6: Algeria vs DR Congo
- January 6: Winner Group F vs Runner-up Group E
These match-ups promise a mix of traditional powerhouses and emerging nations, adding unpredictability to the knockout phase.
Our Final Thoughts
AFCON 2025 has once again underlined why it is regarded as one of the most competitive continental tournaments in world football. While favourites like Morocco, Egypt and Nigeria have lived up to expectations, stories such as Tanzania’s historic qualification have added emotional depth and excitement. As the competition moves into the knockout rounds, form, discipline and tactical sharpness will become decisive. With several heavyweight clashes and potential upsets on the horizon, the round of 16 is set to deliver high drama and memorable moments for fans across the continent and beyond.