AFCON: Nigeria vs Ivory Coast among top 5 games to watch in group stages

The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations group stage has no shortage of quality matches worth cancelling all plans to see when the competition begins on January 13.

24 teams are vying to be crowned champions of Africa, with Senegal aiming to defend the trophy they won for the first time in their history in 2021 when they defeated Egypt via penalties.

Following the conclusion of the AFCON 2023 draws, held at the Parc des Expositions d'Abidjan in Abidjan on October 12, fans are highly anticipating some key matchups when the competition kicks off.

The 24 teams that qualified for the tournament were divided into six groups of four each with Nigeria and Ivory Coast in Group A, Egypt in Group B, and Senegal leading the pack in Group C, per Wikipedia.

Sports Brief highlights the top five matches to watch out for in the group stages of the 32nd edition of the AFCON, scheduled to be hosted by Ivory Coast.

Top 5 AFCON matches to watch

1. Nigeria vs Ivory Coast

On January 18, the headliner will emerge from Group A action as regional giants, Ivory Coast and Nigeria reprise their famous rivalry, All Nigeria Soccer reports.

When these two African stalwarts meet, well-known stars like Wilfried Zaha face off against reigning African football king and Super Eagles ace, Victor Osimhen.

2. Senegal vs Cameroon

The perennial derby between African champions, Senegal and one of the pre-tournament AFCON favourites, Cameroon on January 19 promises a world-class show of ability.

Sadio Mane may have relocated to the Middle East, but the former Liverpool star remains the focal point against another European great, Manchester United goalkeeper, Andre Onana.

3. Ghana vs Egypt

Given the history between two regional rivals, Ghana's January 18 clash with seven-time winners, Egypt deserves marquee status in Group B.

The Black Stars will try to contain the Pharaohs' fast-paced attack, powered by Liverpool superstar, Mohamed Salah.

Meanwhile, striker Jordan Ayew, along with his brother Andre Ayew, leads the Ghanaian line against a typically strong Egyptian side in a classic attack vs. defence battle.

4. Tunisia vs Mali

While there is no clear favourite in Group E, Tunisia's match against Mali on January 20 offers potential for individual talents such as Tunisian hitman, Whabi Khazri and Malian sniper, Ibrahima Kone to affect the outcome.

Given Tunisia's recent AFCON quarter-final credentials and Mali's status as hard-fighting underdogs, their quest to advance from a wide-open group could be an exciting spectacle.

5. South Africa vs Tunisia

Finally, on January 24, Group E features another highly anticipated matchup between South Africa and Tunisia's generally defensively disciplined squad.