As the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco approaches the Round of 16, one clear storyline is emerging: the continents traditional heavyweights are not just surviving theyre dominating. After a group stage that concluded with minimal surprise eliminations, AFCON 2025 looks less like a festival of upsets and more like a reaffirmation of footballing hierarchy. The giants are very much down for business.
Established Powers Delivering Consistency
Morocco, playing at home and widely tipped as a favourite, finished the group stage unbeaten. The Atlas Lions combined dynamic attack and defensive discipline, topping Group A with convincing wins including a commanding 30 victory over Zambia keeping alive their ambitions for continental glory.
In Group B, Egypt reached the Round of 16 comfortably, topping their section with strong performances. Even with star man Mohamed Salah rested in the final match, the Pharaohs managed the results needed, highlighting the depth and experience in their squad.
Nigeria was in imperious form. The Super Eagles closed out Group C with a perfect nine points, asserting their attacking strength and tactical consistency, even while resting key players late in the stage.
Across other groups, Senegal and Algeria also impressed, each finishing top of their respective sections with authoritative displays and squad depth that speaks to their continental pedigree.
Fewer Upsets, More Expected Outcomes
This edition of AFCON has so far de-emphasized the traditional notion of upsets. Unlike past tournaments where underdogs regularly derailed favorites early, most established teams have progressed as predicted backed by experience, stronger tactical foundations, and elite performers.
Yes, football is never without drama and there are always compelling stories from the fringes but the big names have largely avoided early embarrassment. Instead, they have delivered results that mirror pre-tournament expectations, making a mockery of early narratives that this AFCON might be defined by chaos rather than class.
What the Big Guns Bring to the Knockouts
With heavyweights like Morocco, Egypt, Nigeria, Senegal, Algeria, and Cte dIvoire all entering the Round of 16 in strong form, the knockout rounds promise high-stakes battles rather than giant-killing surprises. These teams bring experience in late-stage tournament football, having navigated pressure situations and high-stakes matches repeatedly at AFCON and continental club competitions.
They also carry quality in key positions, with world-class forwards, creative midfielders, and reliable goalkeepers capable of changing games at crucial moments. Their proven goal-scoring depth ensures they can consistently break down well-organized defenses, while defensive resilience under pressure allows them to withstand late surges and manage tight matches effectively.
Together, these qualities suggest that the title race will be contested by sides with history, depth, and composure the hallmarks of Africas traditional football powerhouses. Fans heading into the knockout stage can expect strategic, high-quality football where every match could hinge on experience, tactical discipline, and star-level talent.
The Upsets That Did Happen But Didnt Rewrite History
There are still talking points dramatic group matches, tight standings, and spirited performances from underdog sides. Yet none have unseated enough favorites early to make this a giants-gone tournament. Even when smaller teams have won, it has tended to be against mid-level opponents rather than the established elite.
Verdict Supremacy Restored
AFCON 2025, at the group stage at least, has been a reminder of the strength of Africas traditional heavyweights. Their progression into the knockout rounds sets the tone for what promises to be a high-quality, fiercely competitive second phase where experience, tactical nous, and star power will likely decide the contenders for continental glory.
In a tournament often defined by surprises, this edition so far feels like a celebration of Africas established footballing powerhouses rising to the occasion once again.
