The eyes of football fans across the African continent are turning towards the Kingdom of Morocco, as the Africa Cup of Nations enters its decisive stage with the start of the round of 16. This edition is witnessing a record and unprecedented Arab presence, with five Arab teams having secured their places in the knockout stages, reflecting the recent development of Arab football.
Morocco and Egypt: A paved road to the quarter-finals
The draw was kind to Morocco, the host nation and favorite to win the title, as well as to Egypt, the record holder with seven titles. The Atlas Lions will face Tanzania, who qualified for this stage for the first time in their history with just two points. Despite statements from Tanzania's Argentinian coach, Miguel Ángel Gamondi, about wanting to "rest" before thinking about the match, the technical and historical differences clearly favor Morocco, who have already defeated the same opponent both home and away in World Cup qualifiers.
Meanwhile, the Pharaohs will face Benin, who secured their first-ever victory in the tournament during this edition. Although Benin's assistant coach, Tunisian Nabil Trabelsi, praised the strength of the Egyptian attack, led by global star Mohamed Salah and the talented Omar Marmoush, Egypt's extensive experience in knockout stages makes them the favorites to advance.
Tough tests for Algeria, Tunisia and Sudan
In stark contrast, the other Arab teams face tough challenges. Algeria, aiming for their third title after 1990 and 2019, will avoid Senegal but will clash with the formidable Democratic Republic of Congo, a two-time champion and fourth-place finisher in the last edition, promising a fierce physical and tactical battle.
The Tunisian national team, which underperformed in the group stage and finished second, will face a tough challenge against Mali, the formidable team that troubled Morocco in the group stage. Coach Sami Trabelsi acknowledged the team's lackluster performance in the first round but promised a much-improved showing in the knockout stages.
Perhaps the most difficult task will be for the Sudanese national team, the champion of the 1970 edition, who were placed by fate in a confrontation with the title holder and 2022 champion, the star-studded Senegalese national team, in a match that requires double the effort from the "Falcons of Jediane" to cause a surprise.
Historical significance and record-breaking figures
The qualification of five Arab teams for the Round of 16 is a historic achievement that strengthens the chances of the trophy remaining in the Arab region, especially as the tournament is being held on Arab soil. This strong presence opens the door to the possibility of all-Arab clashes in the later stages, most notably a potential quarter-final between Tunisia and Sudan should they overcome their tough hurdles. This edition confirms the continued Arab dominance that was clearly evident in the 2019 and 2022 editions, with Morocco having legitimate ambitions to capitalize on home advantage and a passionate crowd to claim the title they last won in 1976.
