Wayne Lumbasi
The Africa Cup of Nations group stage continued to take shape yesterday as decisive matches across the tournament confirmed several teams’ progression to the Round of 16. With qualification on the line, the day delivered composed performances from tournament heavyweights and tense battles among sides fighting to stay alive.
Hosts Morocco underlined their credentials with a commanding victory over Zambia, securing top spot in their group. The Atlas Lions controlled the match from start to finish, combining disciplined defending with sharp attacking play to leave no doubt about their qualification.
In the same group, Mali advanced after holding Comoros to a goalless draw, doing just enough to finish second and move into the knockout phase.
In Group B, South Africa sealed their place in the Round of 16 after edging Zimbabwe in a closely contested encounter. The result ensured Bafana Bafana finished as group runners-up following a strong showing in the decisive fixture. Egypt, meanwhile, confirmed their progress with a draw against Angola, a result that saw the seven-time champions finish top of the group and continue their pursuit of another continental title.
With the latest round of matches completed, Morocco, Mali, Egypt and South Africa have officially qualified for the Round of 16. They join teams that had already secured early qualification, including Nigeria and Algeria, as the knockout bracket begins to take shape.
Attention now turns to the remaining group fixtures, where final qualification spots will be decided, including places reserved for the best third-placed teams. As the tournament moves closer to the knockout stage, intensity is expected to rise, with every match carrying increased significance on the road to continental glory.
THE LATEST SPORTS NEWS
BRITISH BOXER ANTHONY JOSHUA INJURED IN CAR CRASH THAT KILLED TWO IN NIGERIA
