By McGeorge Mbare
THE battle for continental supremacy continues to intensify, with underdogs set to take on the traditional giants of the African continent in the Africa Cup of Nations round of 16 stage.
In a notable fixture, three time record winners, Nigeria ‘s Super Eagles are set to battle against Southern African underdogs, Mozambique ‘s Mambas, at Fez stadium at 20:00hours on January 5, 2026.
While the most successful African nation, Egypt ‘s Pharaohs, led by Mohamed Salah will face Benin, as they both vie to secure a spot in the last eight of the tournament.
In another fixture, South Africa will take on Cameron ‘s indomitable Lions, as they both look to have a better tournament than their previous appearance.
This will be one of the much anticipated fixture as Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos will be facing former nation that he once tasted glory with in 2017, when Cameron won the championship.
The 2022 champions, Senegal ‘s Lions of Teranga, will take on Sudan as both they vie to secure their second championship.
In their last 7 encounters, Senegal claimed the victories and remain unbeaten by the Sudanese.
The defending champions Ivory Coast will battle against Burkina Faso as they look secure back to back championship to solidify their name in the continental football.
Morocco ‘s Atlas Lions continues to search for their second AFCON title, as they face the East African underdogs, Tanzania. While Algeria will take on DR Congo.
Historically, Egypt is the only nation to ever win three consecutive Africa Cup of Nations titles.