The Africa Cup of Nations 2024, hosted by Morocco, will showcase 24 teams from across the continent, with ten already securing their places through early qualification rounds.
These teams, including Equatorial Guinea, Ivory Coast, Senegal, DR Congo, Algeria, Egypt, Angola, Cameroon, Uganda, and host Morocco, demonstrated remarkable performances to earn their spots in the tournament. The remaining teams continue to vie for a coveted place in this premier African football event.
The qualification campaign involves 48 national teams, divided into 12 groups by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Each group engages in multiple matches, intensifying the competition as teams aim to finish in the top two of their groups. Morocco’s group, however, is an exception, as the host nation automatically qualifies, allowing the top two from the other 11 groups to progress to the main tournament.
This November, crucial qualification rounds are in play, determining which additional teams will join the ten already qualified. Each match carries weight as teams battle for positioning within their groups, with fans and countries alike invested in the outcome. These rounds add excitement, setting the stage for a robust lineup in Morocco next year.
Scheduled to begin on December 21, 2024, and conclude on January 18, 2026, the tournament promises to unite football enthusiasts from all corners of Africa. AFCON 2024 is expected to bring thrilling moments, with each team eager to leave its mark on one of the most celebrated sporting events in Africa.
Africa Cup of Nations 2024 Qualified Teams
As of November 14, 2024, the following teams have secured their spots for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco:
- Morocco (Hosts)
- Algeria
- Angola
- Burkina Faso
- Cameroon
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Egypt
- Equatorial Guinea
- Ivory Coast
- Senegal
Morocco (Hosts)
As the host nation, Morocco automatically qualified for the 2024 AFCON, marking a unique position to build upon their 1988 hosting experience. Known for a strong football legacy, Morocco will be under pressure to meet the expectations of fans at home. This team has consistently proven to be a formidable force in African football, reaching the semifinals in recent tournaments and maintaining a position in the top ranks of African teams. Their robust domestic league, talent pipeline, and recent performance in global tournaments, including a historic World Cup run, position Morocco as strong contenders.
Algeria
Algeria qualified for the tournament in a dominant fashion, winning all their group-stage matches with a perfect record of 12 points. This success, built on a disciplined defense and creative midfield, highlights Algeria’s transformation since their 2019 AFCON victory. Under Coach Djamel Belmadi, Algeria showcases a well-balanced team, with stars like Riyad Mahrez leading their attacking efforts. Algeria’s win over Togo, secured by Ramy Bensebaini’s penalty goal, epitomizes their resilience and efficiency under pressure, ensuring their fans have high expectations for the 2024 tournament.
Angola
Angola’s journey to AFCON 2024 saw moments of grit and determination, especially with their decisive 1-0 win against Niger, secured by Zini’s first-minute goal. Angola’s strategy has centered around early-game aggressiveness, which allows them to maintain pressure and control in midfield. The team has shown remarkable coordination and tactical adaptability, making Angola a promising team to watch.
Burkina Faso
Qualifying comfortably, Burkina Faso’s Stallions secured their place with a 2-0 win against Burundi, marked by goals from Mohamed Konate and Bertrand Traore. This win brought their tally to 10 points, and Burkina Faso’s style blends a solid defense with swift counter-attacks. Known for their disciplined play and consistent performances in recent AFCON tournaments, Burkina Faso continues to grow as a competitive force, fueled by a young and ambitious squad eager to leave a lasting impression.
Cameroon
The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon have a storied legacy in African football, and their 1-0 qualification win over Kenya, highlighted by Boris Enow’s free-kick goal, adds to this reputation. Cameroon’s physical style and defensive strategies continue to be their strengths, and with standout players emerging in recent years, Cameroon remains one of the favorites. Their experience and tactical maturity make them formidable opponents, especially in knockout-stage encounters.
Dr Congo
DR Congo qualified by triumphing over Tanzania with a 2-0 win, marked by Meschack Elia’s two goals. DR Congo’s qualification reflects the resurgence of their squad, with a focus on rebuilding a team that combines experience and youthful energy. The team’s cohesion has been commendable, as has their defensive organization. DR Congo’s passionate fanbase and determination to make a mark at AFCON 2024 add a dynamic element to the competition.
Egypt
Egypt’s Pharaohs, captained by Liverpool star Mohamed Salah, solidified their qualification with a 1-0 victory over Mauritania, where Ibrahim Adel delivered the deciding goal. Egypt’s track record in AFCON history is legendary, having won the tournament a record seven times. Known for their precision, tactical discipline, and skillful players, Egypt brings a blend of historic prestige and modern football strategies, making them perennial favorites.
Equatorial Guinea
Equatorial Guinea’s qualification was confirmed without them needing to play, as Liberia’s 1-0 win over Togo allowed them to secure a top-two finish in their group. The team has gained popularity for their hard work and strategic organization, consistently performing well in recent tournaments. Equatorial Guinea’s defensive solidity and midfield creativity have been key, and they enter AFCON 2024 with high hopes of advancing past the group stage.
Ivory Coast
Securing their qualification after Sierra Leone’s draw with Chad, Ivory Coast stands as one of the tournament’s top contenders. Known for producing some of Africa’s most skilled players, Ivory Coast’s lineup remains impressive, with a combination of emerging talents and seasoned veterans. Their dynamic style, characterized by rapid ball movement and physicality, is likely to pose challenges for any opponent.
Senegal
Senegal’s journey saw a dramatic qualification win over Malawi, where Sadio Mane scored a last-minute free-kick goal to secure a 1-0 victory. This win illustrates Senegal’s persistence and flair, hallmarks of the reigning African champions. Senegal’s defense, combined with world-class players like Mane, makes them formidable competitors. Their success in recent tournaments has raised the bar, and they enter AFCON 2024 as one of the favorites to retain their title.
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