TotalEnergies AFCON 2023: The New Light Paper Unveils Key Stories and Final 24-Team List in Ivory Coast

By Producer Jocker

Abidjan, Ivory Coast – January 6, 2024

As anticipation builds for the 36th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), The New Light Paper has released an insightful overview, diving into the essential details of the upcoming tournament. The focus is on the final 24-team list for the TotalEnergies AFCON 2023, set to kick off in Ivory Coast on January 13, 2024.

Egypt Leads the Way: A Glimpse into AFCON History

Egypt stands as the most successful nation in AFCON’s illustrious history, claiming the coveted title seven times. With a tournament that dates back to 1957, AFCON has evolved over the years, witnessing changes in formats, trophies, and even the timing of the event. Egypt’s unprecedented three consecutive titles in 2006, 2008, and 2010 remain a historic achievement.

TotalEnergies AFCON 2023: Prizes and Stakes

The stakes are higher than ever in the TotalEnergies AFCON 2023, with the winner set to receive a substantial USD 7,000,000, while the runner-up will take home USD 4,000,000. Semi-finalists will each pocket USD 2,500,000, and the four quarter-finalists will receive USD 1,300,000 each. These increased cash prizes reflect the growing significance and competitiveness of African football on the global stage.

Trophies Through Time: A Symbol of Glory

Throughout AFCON’s rich history, three distinct trophies have symbolized the triumph of the champions. From the silver Abdelaziz Abdallah Salem Trophy to the “Trophy of African Unity” and the current gold-plated cup, each trophy carries a unique legacy. Egypt and Cameroon hold the distinction of being permanent holders after their three-time victories.

Group Stage Highlights: A Glimpse into the Opening Matches

The group stage draw has set the stage for thrilling encounters, with Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau forming Group A. Defending champions Senegal headline Group C, facing tough competition from Cameroon, Guinea, and The Gambia.

Group Lineup:

• Group A: Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea-Bissau.
• Group B: Egypt, Ghana, Cape Verde, Mozambique.
• Group C: Senegal, Cameroon, Guinea, The Gambia.
• Group D: Algeria, Burkina Faso, Mauritania, Angola.
• Group E: Tunisia, Mali, South Africa, Namibia.
• Group F: Morocco, DR Congo, Zambia, Tanzania.

Record seven-time champions Egypt will take on Mozambique in Group B, while Senegal, led by Sadio Mane, opens their title defense against The Gambia in Group C.

AFCON 2023: Noteworthy Changes and Postponements

Originally slated for the northern hemisphere’s summer, the AFCON 2023 finals were rescheduled to January to avoid the rainy season in the region. This adjustment aims to ensure optimal playing conditions and showcases Africa’s football prowess on a global scale.

As the football world eagerly awaits the kickoff in Ivory Coast, AFCON 2023 promises to deliver excitement, fierce competition, and memorable moments for fans across the continent and beyond. Stay tuned for The New Light Paper’s comprehensive coverage of the tournament, capturing the essence of African football at its finest.