"For a number of countries that missed out on the 2026 World Cup, the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) which kicks off on December 21 in Morocco, not only offers a swift chance at a measure of redemption but also a chance to start rebuilding and preparing for the global tournament when it next comes around in 2030. Teams such as Nigeria,"
"Being placed with Egypt, the most successful AFCON nation with seven titles, as well as South Africa and Angola, teams that have unlike Zimbabwe World Cup experience, means that it is going to be tough. Getting out of the group stage for the first time would be a major step in the right direction, especially as Zimbabwe, banned by FIFA in 2022 due to government interference, was unable to compete at the last AFCON."
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations begins December 21 in Morocco and provides nations that missed the 2026 World Cup an immediate opportunity to rebuild and seek redemption. Several prominent teams, including Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Zimbabwe, Benin and Sudan, will be absent from the 2026 tournament but will compete at AFCON. Africa increased its World Cup allocation to nine automatic places for 2026, intensifying long-term qualification goals. The tournament features 24 teams and fierce competition, and strong AFCON performances can restore fan optimism and support rebuilding toward the 2030 World Cup.
Read at www.dw.com
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