By Michael Odegbe
The drama at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco is rapidly escalating, with the group stage already suffering its first major losses.
Six teams have officially been eliminated from the tournament, ending their Africa Cup of Nations dreams earlier than expected. Botswana, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Comoros will return home as the competition enters its decisive phase.
Botswana was the first team to be eliminated after losing their opening two matches, ending their chances of qualifying. Shortly after, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon joined them, also being eliminated after failing to score in their opening two group matches.
Zambia’s hopes of qualifying were decisively dashed on Monday evening. Chipolopolo lost 3-0 to hosts Morocco, sealing their elimination and underscoring the Atlas Lions’ growing dominance on home soil. Comoros were the first to finish third. Despite their fighting spirit, their points tally left them trailing four of the five remaining third-placed teams, mathematically ending their chances before the final group stage calculations were completed.
While disappointment spread throughout these camps, joy and relief were elsewhere.
Six teams have already secured their places in the Round of 16, cementing their position in the tournament. Algeria, Mali, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, and Egypt all did enough to secure early qualification, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling knockout stage.
With heavyweight clashes looming and several qualifying spots still up for grabs, the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations continues to offer drama, surprises, and high-stakes football, proving once again why Africa’s biggest football festival never ceases to captivate.
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