TotalEnergies CAF AFCON: What to look out for in Matchday Two of group stage

The Matchday Two matches of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d'Ivoire 2023 are set to kick off on Thursday, January 18.

Some countries have the advantage to right their wrongs and get back to winning ways with early exits , while others will be hoping to continue their fine form. 

There is a lot at stake in the second round; this is what to look out for.

Possible Progress for Senegal
Defending champions Senegal could secure their round of 16 ticket with a win in the second round. With a blend of youth and experience, Senegal looks solid ahead of their game against Cameroon after dismissing Gambia 3-0 in their opening Group B match.

Atlas Lions Could Advance
Morocco made light work of Tanzania in the first round following an emphatic 3-0 win. Hoping to build on their 2022 FIFA World success, the Atlas Lions of Morocco have the round of 16 in sight when they face DR Congo.

Ghana on Shaky Grounds
The Black Stars have faced a series of struggles in recent tournaments, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 TotalEnergies CAF AFCON, where they exited from the group stage. They are on the brink of another group stage exit ahead of their game against Egypt on Thursday night after losing 2-1 to Cape Verde in their opening game of the tournament.

No Option for South Africa
Following their 2-0 defeat, South Africa have no option but to win their second game against Namibia. The Bafana Bafana will come up against the Brave Warriors who shocked Tunisia and are hoping to progress for the first time in their history.

Nigeria Needs a Win
Nigeria’s star-studded side needs a win in the second round following their first-round draw with Equatorial Guinea. They come up against hosts Côte d'Ivoire in their second game. The only option for Nigeria is to win, and it’s obviously a difficult one for Victor Osimhen and his team-mates.

Surprise Packages
Following their surprising win against Tunisia, Namibia will play South Africa in the second round, and there is a possible qualification for the Brave Warriors. Cape Verde shocked Ghana in the first round. With their next game against Mozambique, the Blue Sharks can obviously be the first to progress in a group that includes Ghana and Egypt.

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