AFCON groups wrap: Drama abounds as fancied powerhouses and rising stars battle for glory

By the time the CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco concluded on Wednesday night, the tournament demonstrated once again why it stands as one of the most unpredictable and captivating spectacles in world football. A total of 87 goals across 24 matches in six groups demonstrated both the attacking ambition and the depth of skill that Africa’s leading nations, alongside emerging contenders, bring to the continent’s premier tournament. The group phase was marked not only by familiar stars stepping up but also by emerging talent seizing their moment on the continental stage. The talents of Mohamed Salah (Egypt) and Riyad Mahrez...