AFCON Review: Key Discussions
In the ongoing AFCON tournament taking place in Cote d'Ivoire, teams are battling it out for spots in the last 16, and matchday 2 has certainly delivered some exciting games. Let's take a look at some of the action.
South Africa's Redemption
After a disappointing performance against Mali in their opening game, South Africa's Bafana Bafana team was determined to make amends against neighbors Namibia. They didn't disappoint, dominating the match 4-0, with senior statesman Themba Zwane scoring a brace, Percy Tau converting a penalty, and Thapelo Maseko adding the 4th goal. South Africa now sits in 2nd position behind Mali and is back in contention for a knockout spot.
Cape Verde's Continued Impressions
With some reported doubts about Cape Verde's upset win over Ghana in their first game, their dominating performance against Mozambique should have silenced those skeptics. They clinched a 3-0 victory with Bebe and Kevin Pina scoring wonder strikes from outside the box, while Ryan Mendes capitalized on a Mozambican defensive error. Cape Verde has now secured its spot in the knockout stages, putting less pressure on them in their final group match against Egypt.
Trouble for Home Team Ivory Coast
Once a powerhouse in African football, led by the great Didier Drogba and boasting talents like Yaya Toure, Gervinho, and Salman Kalou, Ivory Coast's current team pales in comparison. They currently sit 3rd in their group following a loss to Nigeria and may be on the brink of elimination if they fail to beat Equatorial Guinea.
Egypt's Loss of Superstar Mo Salah
A potential setback for Egypt has been the loss of Mo Salah due to a muscle strain/injury. Already struggling in the tournament, the Pharaohs will need to defeat Cape Verde in their upcoming game without their star striker. With Mo Salah out, Egypt may face difficulties against a free-scoring Cape Verde side in their third and final group match.
Praise for Officiating
Historically controversial, the officiating in the AFCON tournament has been a pleasant surprise, drawing praise from across the world and continent for its quality. The use of VAR for the first time in the tournament has been especially appreciated, with many correct decisions being made.
Football and sports enthusiasts were thrilled by South Africa's impressive 4-0 win over Namibia in the AFCON tournament, with Bafana Bafana's Themba Zwane scoring a brace. Cape Verde continued to impress with a 3-0 victory over Mozambique, putting them in a strong position for the knockout stages. Despite some challenging circumstances, the officiating in the tournament has received praise for its quality, with the use of VAR being particularly well-received.
