The group stage of the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has concluded, setting the stage for a thrilling knockout phase commencing Saturday in Morocco. Sixteen nations have emerged from the original field of twenty-four, now poised to compete in eight high-stakes Round of 16 matches over a compelling four-day football spectacle.
The tournament resumes with a constellation of African football’s elite talent taking center stage. All eyes will be on the recent African Player of the Year, Paris Saint-Germain’s Achraf Hakimi, as he leads tournament favorites Morocco against Tanzania. Liverpool’s iconic forward Mohamed Salah, fresh from decisive group-stage performances, will captain Egypt versus Benin. Meanwhile, Nigerian hopes rest on the powerful shoulders of Victor Osimhen, the Galatasaray striker and former award winner, as the Super Eagles face Mozambique.
The road to the final, and a record-breaking $10 million prize, is fraught with compelling narratives. Defending champions Ivory Coast enter a regional derby against neighbors Burkina Faso, where Manchester United’s Amad Diallo must overcome a stout defense featuring Edmond Tapsoba. In a clash of titans, flawless group-stage performers Algeria, inspired by captain Riyad Mahrez’s three goals, meet the formidable DR Congo.
Other key fixtures include 2022 champions Senegal, showcasing veteran Sadio Mane and teenage PSG prospect Ibrahim Mbaye, against a resilient Sudan team that progressed despite its players not scoring a goal. South Africa and Cameroon reignite a rivalry three decades old, separated by just four places in the global rankings. Mali, after drawing favorites Morocco, faces a Tunisia side that displayed a furious late rally against Nigeria. Every match promises a dramatic step toward continental glory.