The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco moves into a more demanding phase on Friday as the second round of group-stage matches begins, shifting the tournament from early optimism to intense competition where pedigree, pressure and tactical discipline increasingly shape outcomes.
Following an opening round that produced 29 goals from 12 matches, alongside six clean sheets, the tournament has already reflected AFCON’s familiar balance between attacking flair and defensive organisation. With qualification scenarios beginning to take shape, the next set of fixtures is expected to separate genuine title contenders from early pace-setters.
Several high-profile encounters involving Africa’s most decorated nations headline the round, with results likely to define group dynamics and influence routes to the knockout stages.
Egypt vs South Africa: Battle for Group Control
Friday’s standout fixture in Group B sees seven-time champions Egypt face South Africa in a clash steeped in AFCON history. Both sides began their campaigns with victories. Egypt once again relied on the influence of Mohamed Salah, complemented by the emergence of Omar Marmoush, while South Africa edged Angola through late composure and a clinical finish from Lyle Foster.
With both teams on three points, the encounter could prove decisive in establishing early control of the group. Earlier on Friday, Angola and Zimbabwe meet in a fixture that already carries must-win significance.
Morocco vs Mali: Hosts Tested at Home
In Group A, host nation Morocco face a stern examination against Mali. Backed by home support and their reputation as Africa’s first World Cup semi-finalists, Morocco showed composure in their opening match, with Brahim Díaz finding the breakthrough.
Mali, however, arrive with one of the tournament’s most dynamic midfields, anchored by the energy and intensity of Lassine Sinayoko. A positive result for Mali would significantly alter the complexion of the group. Zambia and Comoros contest the group’s other fixture earlier in the evening.
Senegal vs DR Congo: Strength Meets Structure
Saturday’s Group D clash between Senegal and DR Congo promises a contest of power and organisation. Senegal’s authority was evident in their opening win, highlighted by a brace from Nicolas Jackson and the midfield control of Iliman Ndiaye.
DR Congo, meanwhile, impressed with tactical discipline and defensive solidity, suggesting they will pose a serious challenge. With both sides keeping clean sheets in round one, the fixture could determine the group’s dominant force. Benin face Botswana earlier in the day.
Nigeria vs Tunisia: A Familiar Continental Test
Saturday night delivers another classic as Nigeria take on Tunisia in Group C. Nigeria, runners-up at the last AFCON, displayed composure and quality in their opening match, with Ademola Lookman again proving decisive.
Tunisia followed a flawless qualifying campaign with a confident tournament start, driven by the attacking efficiency of Mohamed Elias Achouri. The contest is expected to be finely balanced, with little margin for error between two disciplined and experienced sides.
Côte d’Ivoire vs Cameroon: Rivalry Renewed
Sunday’s Group F encounter between defending champions Côte d’Ivoire and long-time rivals Cameroon is among the most anticipated fixtures of the round. Victory would place the Elephants in firm control of the group, but Cameroon’s narrow opening win underlined their enduring resilience.
With attacking contributions already evident from Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo, the fixture promises intensity, emotion and attacking quality.
Derbies and High-Stakes Encounters Elsewhere
Beyond the marquee clashes, several fixtures carry significant intrigue. East African neighbours Uganda and Tanzania meet in a regional derby known for defying form, while Algeria’s meeting with Burkina Faso has major qualification implications. Algeria’s emphatic opening display, inspired by Riyad Mahrez, will be tested by a Burkina Faso side buoyed by belief and late drama.
AFCON Tightens the Screws
After just one round, AFCON 2025 is already proving unforgiving. Traditional heavyweights are under early scrutiny, emerging teams are demonstrating resilience, and the margins for error are narrowing rapidly.
As rivalries reignite and elite squads collide, the second round of matches is expected to bring greater clarity—revealing those built for a deep tournament run and those already facing mounting pressure.
Second Round Group Fixtures
Friday, 26 December
Angola vs Zimbabwe – Group B
Egypt vs South Africa – Group B
Zambia vs Comoros – Group A
Morocco vs Mali – Group A
Saturday, 27 December
Benin vs Botswana – Group D
Senegal vs DR Congo – Group D
Uganda vs Tanzania – Group C
Nigeria vs Tunisia – Group C
Sunday, 28 December
Gabon vs Mozambique – Group F
Equatorial Guinea vs Sudan – Group E
Algeria vs Burkina Faso – Group E
Côte d’Ivoire vs Cameroon – Group F
