AFCON is synonymous with thrilling matches between underdogs and favourites, where practically anything is possible. We dug through the archives to find some of the most epic encounters in AFCON history ahead of the tournament starting this weekend.
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1. Egypt 6-3 Nigeria (1963):
In a historic clash, Nigeria’s first appearance at the finals turned into a goal fest against Egypt. Despite a quiet first half-hour, the game exploded with nine goals, with Egypt emerging victorious. However, the win didn’t propel Egypt to success as they finished third in the tournament.
2. Zaire 2-2 Zambia (1974):
The 1974 final between Zaire and Zambia was a thriller, requiring a replay to determine the winner. After a 2-2 draw in the initial clash, Zaire emerged triumphant 2-0 in the replay with Ndaya Mulamba scoring both goals to set a tournament record, and Zaire went on to the World Cup in West Germany.
3. Angola 4-4 Mali (2010):
The most stunning comeback in AFCON history took place in the opening match of the 2010 tournament between Angola and Mali. Angola seemed in control with a 4-0 lead, but Mali orchestrated a remarkable turnaround in the final 11 minutes, securing an unforgettable 4-4 draw.
4. Burkina Faso 3-3 Cameroon (2022):
Playing in the third-place play-off after semi-final misery, Burkina Faso and Cameroon put on a show for the ages as they shared six goals in a thrilling match. Burkina Faso raced into a seemingly unassailable lead after 49 minutes, before a Vincent Aboubakar double at the death rescued the match for Cameroon. They went on to win 5-3 on penalties to cap off their tournament in superb fashion.
5. Madagascar 2-0 Nigeria (2019):
In one of the biggest shocks in AFCON history, Madagascar, making their tournament debut, defeated three-time winners Nigeria in 2019. Ranked 108th in the world, Madagascar secured a 2-0 victory, showcasing their impressive run in the tournament despite ultimately bowing out in the quarter-finals.
