AFCON latest: Ivory Coast win group to send Cameroon into tough half of draw
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AFCON Latest: Ivory Coast Win Group to Send Cameroon into Tough Half of Draw
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 group stage has concluded with dramatic finishes, as hosts Ivory Coast topped their group, securing an advantageous path in the knockout rounds. Despite limited matches played, Ivory Coast sits atop their group with 4 points from 2 games (1 win, 1 draw, 2-1 goal difference), positioning them for a favorable half of the draw[1][2]. This outcome forces traditional powerhouse Cameroon—not prominently featured in current standings—into a challenging bracket alongside top seeds like Morocco and Egypt[1].
Key Group Standings
| Group A | P | Pts | GD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morocco | 3 | 7 | +5 |
| Mali | 3 | 3 | 0 |
| Comoros | 3 | 2 | -2 |
| Zambia | 3 | 2 | - |
| Group B | P | Pts | GD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Egypt | 3 | 7 | +2 |
| South Africa | 3 | 6 | +1 |
| Angola | 3 | 2 | -1 |
| Zimbabwe | 3 | 1 | -2 |
Recent results shaped the tables: In Group A, Morocco crushed Zambia 3-0, while Comoros drew 0-0 with Mali[2]. Group C saw Nigeria dominate with 9 points (+4 GD), including a 3-1 win over Uganda, as Tunisia drew 1-1 with Tanzania[2]. Group D leaders Senegal (7 pts, +6 GD) thrashed Benin 3-0, tying DR Congo on points[2]. Emerging contenders like Mozambique (3 pts from 2 games) and Benin show upset potential[3].
Last-16 matchups loom, with quarter-finals set for January 9, 2026. Egypt and South Africa advance directly, while Angola and others fight for spots[1][7]. Ivory Coast's strong finish boosts home hopes, but Cameroon's tough draw tests their pedigree amid surprises from Angola, South Africa, and Nigeria[2]. Stay tuned for knockout thrills[1][2].
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