AFCON 2025: East Africa Well Represented as All Round of 16 Teams are Determined
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The lineup for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) round of 16 is now complete following the conclusion of Tuesday's final group stage matches.
While all 16 qualifying nations have been identified, the full fixture schedule remains pending.
The complex process of determining the best third-placed teams, known for its shifting calculations and reliance on results from other groups, has finally concluded.
With Botswana (Group D), Equatorial Guinea (Group E), and Gabon (Group F) already eliminated before the final matchday, all eyes were on the outcomes of Uganda vs. Nigeria and Tanzania vs. Tunisia to finalize the knockout field.
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Tanzania Sneak Through at Angola’s Expense
Uganda's slim hopes were dashed after conceding to Nigeria in the 28th minute and later being reduced to 10 men, leaving just one qualification spot up for grabs between Tanzania and Angola.
The decisive moment came when Feisal Salum scored an equaliser for Tanzania against Tunisia in the 48th minute.
That goal proved crucial, as it gave Tanzania a superior goal-scoring record over Angola, eliminating the need for a drawing of lots. By holding on for a 1-1 draw, the Taifa Stars secured their place in the knockout rounds for the first time in their history.
A victory for Tunisia would have seen Angola advance instead. However, Tanzania's resilient performance ensured their historic qualification. The complete bracket and match schedule will be confirmed on Wednesday evening.
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AFCON ROUND OF 16 QUALIFIED TEAMS
Group A: Morocco, Mali
Group B: Egypt, South Africa
Group C: Nigeria, Tunisia, Tanzania
Group D: Senegal, DR Congo, Benin
Group E: Algeria, Burkina Faso, Sudan (final order pending)
Group F: Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Mozambique (final order pending)
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