Action begins on Saturday with defending champions Senegal taking on Sudan at 18:00, in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Later that evening, at 21:00, Mali will lock horns with Tunisia in another heavyweight showdown.
Sunday’s fixtures will see hosts [insert host country name] face Tanzania, while 1996 AFCON winners South Africa meet five-time champions Cameroon in a clash steeped in history and rivalry.
The excitement continues on Monday, 5 January, when seven-time record holders Egypt take on Benin. Nigeria, aiming to add another title to its illustrious record, will then face Mozambique in a high-stakes contest.
On Tuesday, Algeria will battle the Democratic Republic of Congo, before reigning champions Ivory Coast wrap up the round of 16 against their West African neighbours, Burkina Faso. With so many former champions and rising stars in action, fans can expect drama, goals, and unforgettable moments as the tournament enters its decisive phase.
The road to continental glory is heating up, and every match now carries the weight of history. Who will advance and keep their AFCON dream alive? The next few days will provide the answers.
–SABC/ChannelAfrica–
