Rabat: A thrilling Africa Cup of Nations group stage, which we experienced live on beIN SPORTS, has come to an end, and everything is set for the knockout rounds.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the AFCON 2025 group stage delivered memorable moments, but now only 16 teams remain with a chance to fight for the title. The tournament enters the knockout phase, where there is no room for error.
The teams to beat are Nigeria and Algeria, both of whom finished the group stage with a perfect record.
Despite not having a perfect group stage, Morocco, as the host nation, remains one of the top contenders, led by players such as Brahim Daz, Ayoub El Kaabi, who scored three goals, and Achraf Hakimi, who has recovered from the injury he carried over from the Champions League.
The always dangerous Egypt led by Mohamed Salah cannot be ruled out either, nor can the defending champions Ivory Coast, who arrive full of confidence after their incredible comeback against Gabon.
The Round of 16 matches will be played from 3-6 January 2026, followed by the quarter-finals on 9 and 10 January.
AFCON 2025 Round of 16 dates and venues are as follows:
Saturday, January 3
Senegal vs Sudan – Tangier Stadium
Mali vs Tunisia – Mohammed V Stadium, Casablanca
Sunday, January 4
Morocco vs Tanzania – Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat
South Africa vs Cameroon – Al Medina Stadium, Rabat
Monday, January 5
Egypt vs Benin – Agadir Stadium, Agadir
Nigeria vs Mozambique – Fez Stadium, Fez
Tuesday, January 6
Algeria vs DR Congo – Moulay Hassan Stadium, Rabat
Ivory Coast vs Burkina Faso – Marrakech Stadium, Marrakech