The knockout stages of the AFCON 2019 start this Friday. You can read my tips below.
Uganda 0 v 1 Senegal – Friday 5 July – AFCON 2019 – Under 2.5 Goals (1.35)
Both of these teams were runners up in their respective groups, and they know that neither side is invincible. Uganda were brilliant in their opening game and also played really well against Egypt. I think they can frustrate Senegal, who beat Tanzania and Kenya comfortable but struggled against Algeria. The Teranga Lions have won eight of their last ten games, though, so I have to back them to continue that run.
Nigeria 0 v 0 Cameroon – Saturday 6 July – AFCON 2019 – Under 2.5 Goals (1.40)
I haven’t been convinced by Nigeria. They struggled in their first two games and they eventually paid for their poor performances when they lost to Madagascar. The Super Eagles have only scored twice in their last five games, but Cameroon haven’t been particularly threatening either. They qualified for the last 16 despite having not scored in their last two games. They haven’t conceded yet at the AFCON though, so I don’t see many goals here. I’m going for a Draw and extra time.
Madagascar 1 v 0 DR Congo – Sunday 7 July – AFCON 2019 – Double Chance Madagascar (1.60)
What an incredible debut Madagascar are having at the AFCON! They finished top of Group B with two wins and a draw, including a famous 2-0 victory over Nigeria. DR Congo seemed set for elimination in the group stage but turned it around with 4-0 thrashing of Zimbabwe. However, they’ve only won two of their last ten games outside of their own country. I think Madagascar will win.
Algeria 2 v 0 Guinea – Sunday 7 July – AFCON 2019 – Algeria Win (1.50)
Guinea are through to the last 16 but they have lost three of their last five games. In contrast, Algeria are in great form. They won all three of their games in the group stage, scoring six goals and conceding none. They’re unbeaten in their last nine games and have a great chance to win the tournament. Guinea haven’t won a knock out game since 1976 and I expect them to lose here.
Mali 1 v 1 Ivory Coast – Monday 8 July – AFCON 2019 – Under 2.5 Goals (1.40)
Mali took seven points from a possible nine in the group stage, which meant they finished above Tunisia in Group E. The Ivory Coast also won two of their group games, although I’m still not sure that they have a settled first choice team or system. The Elephants have only lost two of their last ten games but I expect Mali’s pace and power to cause them problems. I’m going for a Draw.
Ghana 1 v 1 Tunisia – Monday 8 July – AFCON 2019 – 2nd Half With Most Goals (2.30)
Ghana finished top of Group F after they beat Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday. They’ve only won four of their last ten games though, drawing five. Likewise, Tunisia drew all of their group games. I expect a tight game and neither team to take risks. Ghana have only conceded four first half goals in their last ten games, while Tunisia have only let in three before half time in their last ten games.