…round 2 of AFCON 2025 kicks off Friday
As Matchday Two of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations gets underway across Morocco (AFCON 2025), the opening round has already delivered a clear message: reputation counts for little here. Across 12 matches, 29 goals, six clean sheets, and several late twists underlined both the attacking ambition and tactical discipline shaping the early stages of the tournament.
Hosts Morocco began with a measured victory, managing expectation as much as their opponents. Against a stubborn Comoros side, the Atlas Lions were patient rather than spectacular, eventually finding control without surrendering structure.
Elsewhere in Group A, Zambia’s stoppage-time equaliser against Mali ensured the opening group ended with uncertainty rather than hierarchy, a theme that echoed throughout matchday one.
Group B delivered its own tight narratives. South Africa edged Angola through late pressure and defensive calm, with Ronwen Williams once again setting the standard between the posts. Egypt, meanwhile, were forced to dig deep. Trailing Zimbabwe for long spells, the record champions leaned on the familiar combination of Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush to turn anxiety into relief, a reminder of both their vulnerability and their enduring quality.
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Nigeria’s start was typically efficient rather than expansive. Ademola Lookman’s goal was enough to secure three points, reinforcing the Super Eagles’ knack for managing early tournament moments. Tunisia were more emphatic, with Mohamed Elias Achouri’s brace announcing intent and placing the Carthage Eagles firmly among the early contenders.
Control defined Group D. DR Congo opened with a narrow, disciplined win, while Senegal sent a stronger signal by blending authority with Nicolas Jackson’s double headline-making performance.
Algeria were among the standout sides of the round, dismantling Sudan with Riyad Mahrez, leading by example, his composure and intelligence dictating the contest. Burkina Faso added late drama, overturning a deficit to underline how quickly fortunes can turn.
Defending champions Ivory Coast began their title defence with professionalism rather than flair, Amad Diallo’s decisive strike was enough to secure victory. Cameroon followed a similar script, grinding out a win built on organisation and collective effort, with Bryan Mbeumo’s influence reflecting a side comfortable winning without spectacle.
Beyond the scorelines, individuals have already begun to shape the narrative. Mahrez, Jackson, and Achouri all struck twice, Salah once again carried Egypt’s attacking burden, and Ronwen Williams reminded everyone that goalkeeping remains pivotal. After one round, AFCON 2025 has delivered excitement, but more importantly, it has delivered a warning: nothing here will come easily.
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