The ongoing edition of the most elite tournament in African soccer, AFCON (Africa Cup of Nations), is around the corner. A total of 24 teams from across the continent will participate in this event and fight for the ultimate glory.Â
In the upcoming article, I’ll walk you through the list of the top 10 teams that have successfully participated Africa Cup of Nations qualification, including Tanzania National Football team, aka the Taifa Stars. Read along and develop a more comprehensive understanding of the tournament.
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Top 10 Teams Qualified for Africa Cup of Nations: Which One to Bet on?Â
No doubt all the 24 African teams are worthy of playing it big in the final draw. However, there is no denying that out of the lot, there are a few teams that are expected to do better than the rest. I’ve chosen to go into the details of the ten teams expected to win in this year’s Africa Cup of Nations.
#1 Morocco (The Atlas Lions)
First on the list is Morocco, the top-performing team in African soccer right now. They’re ranked 11th in the world and are fresh from a great FIFA World Cup campaign held in Qatar. Morocco’s team, full of talented players, reached the semi-finals of the World Cup but unfortunately lost to France 2-0.
Morocco has become a key player in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) over the years. Although they joined the tournament later than some North African teams, they quickly made their mark. Morocco won the AFCON title in 1976, making them the second North African team to do so. Their best performance since then was as runners-up in 2004. Excitingly, Morocco will host the AFCON in 2025, and Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania have secured the rights to host the 2027 tournament.
#2 Senegal (Lions of Teranga)
At number two, it’s the 18th-ranked FIFA teamâSenegal. While the recent FIFA World Cup didn’t go as expected for Kalidou Koulibaly’s team, they are determined to clinch their second AFCON title this year.
Senegal’s journey in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has had several bright moments. In the 2002 AFCON, Senegal reached the final but narrowly lost to Cameroon in a match that ended in a goalless draw and was decided by penalties. This was their best result at the time. In 2019, they finished as runners-up again, losing 0-1 to Algeria.Â
However, in 2021, Senegal made history by winning their first AFCON title. They emerged victorious in a dramatic final against Egypt, securing first place in the championship through a penalty shootout.
#3 Tunisia (Eagles of Carthage)
Tunisia grabs the number three spot in my list of the top 10 teams that played in AFCON. Ranked 28 in the FIFA world listing, this is one of those African teams that have made significant progress in recent years.Â
Tunisia has been a consistent presence in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), participating 21 times and setting a record with 16 consecutive appearances from 1994 to 2023. They hosted the tournament in 1965 and 1996, reaching the finals but narrowly losing to Ghana and South Africa, respectively.Â
Their best moment came in 2004 when they won the championship on home soil, defeating Morocco 2-1 in the final, with Francileudo Santos and Ziad Jaziri scoring the decisive goals. Known for their goal-scoring prowess, Tunisia has netted 100 goals in AFCON matches. Francileudo Santos is their top scorer with ten goals scored, while Youssef Msakni has made the most appearances, playing in 29 matches across eight tournaments from 2010 to 2023.
#4 Algeria (The Desert Warriors)
Algeria’s National Football team, a.k .a. The Desert Warriors are lined up next. The two-time AFCON champions (1990, 2019) are eyeing another historic year with a squad that seems promising both on paper and on the field.Â
#5 Egypt (The Pharaohs)
At number five, I’ve for you the most successful team in the history of the AFCON ChampionshipâEgypt. Nicknamed the Pharaohs, the Egypt National Team currently has 7 cup titles in its name. The list of achievements goes further with victories in many major tournaments, including the FIFA Arab Cup, Arab Games, African Games, and more.
#6 Nigeria (Super Eagles)
Nigeria National Football Team (Super Eagles) has been a driving force in African soccer. From producing world-class players to winning tournaments across the continent, the team has seen the apex multiple times. It involves the highest FIFA ranking of 5 (achieved in April 1994)
Nigeria has a rich history in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Super Eagles have won the title three times. Their first win was in 1980 when they beat Algeria in the final. They took their second title in 1994, proving their strong football skills. In 2019, Nigeria, the third placed teams, won 1-0 against Tunisia. Nigeria won the AFCON again in 2013, showing they can keep up their success over the years.
#7 Cameroon (The Indomitable Lions)
5-time AFCON champions Cameroon goes in the 34th edition as one of the most favorite teams to win. Thanks to a star-studded squad that features Darlin Yongwa, Frank Magri, Vincent Aboubakar, and more, Rigobert Song’s team has been exceptional in recent times. It includes the dominating qualifying campaign for the AFCON finals, where they emerged as the winners of Group C.
#8 Ivory Coast (CĂ´te d’Ivoire/The Elephants)Â
Ivory Coast is a major player in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Theyâve won the title three times: in 1992, 2015, and most recently as hosts in 2023. They also finished as runners-up twice, in 2006 and 2012. Given their strong history and recent success, Ivory Coast is a solid choice for betting in AFCON. However, itâs important to also consider other factors like the team’s current form, player injuries, and match conditions when making betting decisions.
#9 Burkina Faso (Les Ătalons)
Burkina Faso ranks among the top-tier African teams that are yet to win the AFCON Championship. Having displayed brilliant performances in the qualifiers, hopes are high that Bertrand TraorĂŠ and his team will write history this year. In 2021, as third placed teams, they defeated Ghana 3-1.
#10 Tanzania (Taifa Stars)
Lastly, let’s talk a bit about the local favorite Tanzania. After a splendid show in the qualifying rounds (finishing as the runners of Group F), the Tanzania National Football team has secured a spot in the main draw of AFCON for the 3rd time.Â
The Taifa Stars have had some memorable moments in AFCON. Their best achievement was during the 2008 qualifiers when they beat Burkina Faso twice and came close to topping their group. They also won the CECAFA Cup in 2010, which was a big win for them.
Recently, theyâve been making strides. In 2024, they finished third in the COSAFA Cup, their biggest football success in years. They also had a strong showing in their second AFCON appearance by beating Uganda 3-0 and reaching the finals for the first time in 39 years. However, they lost all three of their group stage matches.
Looking ahead, Tanzania will co-host the 2027 AFCON with Kenya and Uganda. Theyâre planning to improve their stadiums, boost their branding, ensure security, and offer great hospitality, learning from Ivory Coastâs successful hosting of the 2023 AFCON. Theyâre excited to make the tournament a memorable one for everyone involved.
Where to Bet on AFCON?
Now that you know about the top African teams that are likely to triumph at this prestigious continental tournament, it’s time to discuss a treat for all the fans out there. Say hello to AFCON betting with Parimatchâyour opportunity to be more than just a spectator!Â
On this platform, wagering on sports is made simple, and soccer is no exception. Whether you like to follow the traditional approach of making predictions before the match kickstarts or love to make bets during a live match, Parimatch serves in both cases.
From checking the statistics of head-to-head matches, and live scores to accessing group stage standings and more, all the essential information is always at your disposal. You can take these into account, browse the array of betting options, and make predictions at your will.
Adding convenience to that, Parimatch offers its users a mobile app. I’ve tried it myself, and it works great. You can simply download it on your smartphone for free and bet on the go.
AFCON Predictions & Betting Tips
To predict the outcome of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), you need to have a smart plan and strategize your bets accordingly. First, look at how each team has done in past AFCON tournaments. Take time and review what they’re good at, where they might struggle, and how consistent they’ve been.Â
Next, check out the current form of important players and see if there are any injuries, suspensions, or standout performances that could affect a team’s chances.Â
For a more in-depth approach, you can see how teams did in the qualifying rounds. Closely analyze if they did well there. The momentum can be a great factor in propelling the country or team forward in the main tournament.
Sounds tiring? Hold on, there is an efficient alternative to it. If you’re someone who seeks a more data-driven approach but needs more time for detailed research, utilizing artificial intelligence for your predictions can be excellent.Â
What Is the Predictor for the African Cup of Nations?
Need more insight? Check the detailed article on AI football predictions.
Win the AFCON at Parimatch with Your Favorite Team
That wraps up our guide on the top 10 soccer teams qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations. If you’ve followed along, you now have a better grasp of the event compared to many fans. Plus, you’ve discovered insider tips for successful betting on AFCON. So, why wait? Use this valuable information to secure a win in the AFCON championship with your favorite team.Â
Remember, Parimatch is always here to make your betting sessions a breeze. On top of the usual perks like an extensive library, competitive odds, etc., as a user, you get to enjoy bonuses for boosted wins and 24/7 customer support for prompt query resolutions. Create your account today and be the next master of AFCON betting!
FAQ
â Who hosted most Africa Cups?
Egypt has hosted the most Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments and has won the competition seven times, making them the most successful team in the eventâs history. The tournament, organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), started play in 1957, and Egypt has been a top team ever since.
â Who has won more African Cup of Nations?
Egypt is the most successful team in the history of the AFCON championship. The team has seven titles against its name.
â How many teams qualified for AFCON?
A total of 24 teams have qualified for AFCON.
â Did Egypt qualify for AFCON?
Yes, Egypt has qualified for the AFCON event as the Group D winners of the qualifiers.
Top 10 African Football Teams â Which Is the National Favorite?
