The group stage matches in the Africa Cup of Nations ends tonight. The fate of best third-placed teams will be known tonight to complete the last 16 teams. Who will go through? Here are the things to look out for. Bet on AFCON here.
Angola to frustrate Mali?
After picking up four points from their first two matches in the competition, Mali, who’ve reached the last four of this competition no fewer than six times, are in a strong position. Three points would guarantee that they go through as Group E winners, although a point may be enough to see them go through. However, Angola will need to win to fill one of the top two places, though a draw may be enough for them to progress as one of the best third-placed teams. Angola haven’t seen enough joy in front of goal but they’ve done a better job of restricting their opponents and have conceded just one goal. Mali’s potent attack will need to work even harder to break down this disciplined Angolan team.
Tunisia to qualify for the Round of 16?
Tunisia haven’t lit up the competition so far. However, the 2004 winners have scored in each of their last two Group E matches. Against a defence that was torn apart by Mali, the likes of Wahbi Kahzri should have plenty of joy going forward. A win will see the Carthage Eagles qualify for the last 16. Mauritania were disappointing on match day one where they were on the receiving end of a 4-1 thumping from Mali. On paper, Tunisia is a much better team and should easily dispatch Mauritania.
Ghana to get their first win?
Ghana last won the AFCON in 1982 which a little bizarre given they’ve always been one of the best teams on the continent. In this year’s tournament, they’ve failed to live up with the expectations. They are winless in their first two matches. Now, they face Guinea-Bissau in a do-or-die match where a win will be enough to see them through. The Black Stars played better when they faced Cameroon and created a lot more going forward but just didn’t have the cutting edge. However, Guinea-Bissau tried to restrict Cameroon but were unable to prolong it. Ghana, with all their quality, should be able to nick the three points.
Cameroon to finish top of Group F?
After a dominant and impressive performance on the first day, Cameroon failed to repeat that performance against the Ghanaians. However, Clarence Seedorf won’t be displeased given they sit top of Group F on matchday three. Benin, on the other hand, won’t pushovers like Guinea-Bissau. However, Cameroon quality and pedigree will be hard to stop barring any surprises. The Indomitable Lions are definitely one of the top dogs in African football and will be favourites here.
Battle for best third-placed teams.
The AFCON Round of 16 will be made up of top two teams from each group and the best four third place teams. Hosts Egypt, Madagascar, Nigeria, Uganda, Algeria, Senegal, Morocco and the Ivory Coast have secured their places. DR Congo, Guinea, Kenya and South Africa are looking to qualify as best third-placed teams. DRC, Kenya, South Africa are on three points each with Guinea having the best chance with four points. With the final round of group matches due tonight, the fate of the third-placed teams will be known.