Nigeria Get Triple Crowning

Nigeria have won their third African Cup of Nations after seeing off Burkina Faso in a tight fought final in South Africa. The result was perhaps not a surprising one, but the fact Burkina Faso only conceded the one goal just shows how well they've performed this year.

The Nigerians were in charge during the first half without really threatening the Burkinabe defence. Brown Ideye was almost gifted the opening chance when Daouda Diakite dropped the ball but Ideye fired over. Burkina Faso couldn't muster a lot up front and chances were very few and far between. Aristide Bance was probably their most dangerous player from both open play and set pieces.

Ideye was Nigeria's best player during the first half hour but all of their attacking intent was lacking a final ball. The game finally sprung into life when the deadlock was broken five minutes before half-time. The only real highlight of the match saw Sunday Mba chip the ball over Mohamed Koffi before smashing the ball home.

Burkina Faso did try to find an equaliser immediately after with Bance again looking dangerous, although not managing to keep his shot on target. The half time whistle may have come at the wrong time for the underdogs as Nigeria began the second half in control of the ball but without creating anything once again.

Ideye should have made 2-0 but somehow missed his shot from pretty much on the goal-line with no-one their to turn the ball home. Victor Moses was once again Nigeria's most creative player but even he struggled to perform in the front of goal.

Burkina Faso came back into it during the final 15-minutes after Ahmed Musa fell over in their box when Efe Ambrose looked to have set him up. Wilfried Sanou thought he had equalised but Vincent Enyeama somehow produced a wondrous save to stop the effort finding the top corner.

Ideye was again guilty of missing a chance to put the game beyond all doubt towards the end of the game. But Nigeria managed to hold on to prevent Burkina Faso from doing a Zambia and the Super Eagles can now celebrate their third victory before trying to defend it in two years' time.  

Bronze For Mali Again

For the second year running, Mali have beaten Ghana in the African Cup of Nations' third/fourth place play-off. Last year's tie saw Mali win 2-0 and this year had Mali again record a two goal victory over their opponents.

Ghana had started the match with attacking intent but Asamoah Gyan was once again extremely underwhelming in his shooting. Mali did begin to grow in to the game after the opening ten minutes but Christian Atsu should have put Ghana ahead on the quarter hour mark, however his shot was straight at the keeper. Perhaps against the run of play, Mali went and took the lead on 21-minutes when Adama Tamboura's cross was headed home by Mahamadou Samassa.

Ghana continued to be the more attacking despite not really causing too much of a threat. But Mali came closest to going 2-0 ahead before half-time rather than being level again. Samassa found himself through on goal but at an acute angle and his effort agonisingly hit the post.

Ghana were caught cold in the second half and Mali would have their second three minutes into the period when Adama Coulibaly played brilliantly down the wing. He squeezed into the box before rolling a teasing ball across the box. None of the defenders could get a touch of it and Seydou Keita was able to run in a tap home.

The Ghanaians again began to attack and were given a fantastic opportunity to pull a goal back on 57-minutes. Coulibaly was adjudged to have handled the ball despite having his hands behind his back and a penalty was wrongly given. Mubarak Wakaso stepped up with the opportunity to take the lead in the golden boot competition, but his effort was awful and smashed miles over the bar.

Ghana finally pulled one back to set up a tense final eight minutes. Kwadwo Asamoah tried his luck from 25-yards in what looked like a hopeful effort. Somehow, Soumaila Diakite completely mis-judged the flight of ball and ended up diving away from it to let it in.

As the game fell into injury time, Ghana were beginning to run out of ideas and their last ditch corner was easily held. Mali then broke on the counter attack and Sigamary Diarra took advantage of the bounce to slot home and grant Mali the third place.

Nigeria and Burkina Faso Will Meet Again

After their 1-1 draw in the group stage, Nigeria and Burkina Faso will be in Johannesburg to determine the winner of the 2013 African Cup of Nations. Nigeria will be the big favourites after thier demolition of Mali but Burkina have still only conceded just three goals in the whole tournament and will stake their claim after beating Ghana on penalties. This also sets up a rematch of last year's 3rd/4th place play-off between Ghana and Mali.

Nigeria have hit form at the best possible time and Mali were just no match for them. The game was over after the first half and way before Mali managed to get a consolation. For the first quarter of an hour, Mali were actually the more attacking side and Mohamed Sissoko did manage to skim the bar with a shot.

From there, Nigeria grew into the game and Mali struggled to get any meaningful possession. 25-minutes in and Nigeria took the lead when Elderson Echiejile of SC Braga headed home from a Victor Moses cross. Moses was constantly causing trouble for Mali and it would be 2-0 on the half hour mark; Brown Ideye scoring via a deflection.

The two quick goals sunk Mali but the worst was yet to come as Nigeria would go in at half-time 3-0 ahead. Sissoko conceded a free-kick on the edge of the box in the final minute of the half. The wall wasn't well manned and Emmanuel Emenike's free-kick took a massive deflection off of Sissoko to completely wrong foot the keeper and roll into the net.

Mali did try to attack more in the second half in search of a miracle comeback and this again bit them on the hour mark. A counter attack from Nigeria saw 20-year old Ahmed Musa put through on goal and the CSKA Moscow striker coolly finished underneath the keeper, sending the two times African Cup of Nations  Champions through.

Credit did have to go to Mali though as they never stopped playing and were finally rewarded on 75-minutes. Cheick Diabate forced a way through before playing the ball to Cheick Diarra to tap home for their consolation goal.

Burkina Faso will record their best result in an African Cup of Nations tournament regardless of the result on Sunday. Their previous record was a fourth place in the 1998 tournament but they will be playing Nigeria without, arguably, their two best players. Alain Traore was already ruled out through injury, but now Jonathan Pitroipa will join him after getting sent off in extra time.

The problem between Ghana and Burkina Faso was not just the fact that they had to play on that beachy Nelspruit pitch, but the referee made and missed a few really bad calls. Burkina thought they should have had a penalty in the opening minutes but would then concede one on 13-minutes when Christian Atsu was adjudged to have been pulled in the box, contact was minimal and the decision looked harsh. Wakaso Mubarak stepped up and coolly converted into the bottom corner.

Any thoughts that this would give Ghana the impetus to run away with the game were wrong as Burkina looked to be the more attacking side but couldn't find an equaliser as the teams went in at half-time. Ghana perhaps should have doubled their lead in the early going of the second half as Atsu looked dangerous. Asamoah Gyan did hit the post as Burkina held on.

Burkina then caught Ghana on the counter attack on the hour mark and Florent Rouamba played the ball across for Aristide Bance to slot home in the virtually unguarded net. Again Burkina Faso were, perhaps surprisingly, the more attacking side in the remainder of the second half but they couldn't find a second despite being able to pick holes in the Ghanaian defence.

The game fell into extra time and again Burkina were the more offensive side, forcing saves from Abdul Dauda. Burkina did think that they had moved 2-1 ahead just before half-time when Prejuce Nakoluma put the ball into the net. But the goal was disallowed as the referee had deemed Nakoluma's boot to be too high after challenging Dauda.

Atsu was the most dangerous player in the second period of extra time but the only real piece of drama came three minutes from the end when Pitroipa was sent off. The Rennes player went down under a John Boye challenge. The referee brandished Pitroipa with his second yellow and Burkina would face the penalty shoot-out with ten men.

Ghana stepped up first in the shoot-out but Isaac Vorsah smashed his spot-kick disastrously wide. The next four penalties were flawless but Dauda would keep the score at 2-2 by saving Pan Pierre Coulibaly's penalty. Ghana's chance to go ahead saw Emmanuel Clottey step up but he also missed. Bance put Burkina 3-2 ahead and their victory was assured when Abdoulaye Soulama saved Emmanuel Agyemang Badu's effort.    

Burkina Shock Togo, Nigeria Shock Ivory Coast

The heavily betted favourites for this year's African Cup of Nations have been knocked out by Nigeria in quarter finals. The two time African champions have booked place alongside Mali in the semi-finals. Ghana will be the favourites in the other semi-final as they will meet Burkina Faso, who managed to see off Togo in extra time.

Nigeria and Ivory Coast were content with trying long range efforts in the beginning, with Victor Moses probably being the most dangerous, stinging Boubacar Barry's hands a couple of times. Emmanuel Emenike had the first real chance after being put through by Brown Ideye, but the Spartak Moscow striker fired hopelessly wide.

The first half was really rather bogged down by numerous free-kicks, not unsurprisingly considering the rest of the tournament. But it was one of these free-kicks that led to the opening goal two minutes before half-time. John Obi Mikel laid his free-kick off to Emenike and his blast from 30-yards was flapped at by Barry and somehow beat him, giving Nigeria the lead with Emenike's third goal of the tournament.

Ivory Coast began the second half much better and were level five minutes into the half. It came from another free-kick as Drogba whipped the ball in for Cheick Tiote to head home with nobody anywhere near him to challenge the Newcastle man. It took a while for Nigeria to get going in the second period and Vincent Enyeama was needed to stop Yaya Toure from making it 2-1.

Anything in the opposition third for Nigeria was being created by Moses but he was nowhere to be seen when Nigeria re-took the lead with 12-minutes remaining. Sunday Mba picked the ball up an ran some 60-yards with it before his deflected shot fired over Barry and into the net. Efe Ambrose prevented Yaya Toure from scoring from a second glorious chance as Nigeria held off Ivory Coast to go through to the final four.

There were slight worries for how much football would actually be played between Burkina Faso and Togo. The pair were playing on the beachy Nelspruit pitch, despite the Togolese claiming it was still better than any pitch in Lomé. As for Burkina Faso, the question was posed as for who could score for them with top striker Alain Traore out of the tournament.

It took until nearly 20-minutes before there was a shot on target, this came from Jonathan Pitroipa but his effort was blocked. Floyd Ayite then had a glorious to score at the other end when Serge Gakpe pulled the ball back for him, only for Ayite to harmlessly scuff his shot. The remainder of the first half was largely covered by decent crosses that wasn't met by the strikers.

Togo came close to scoring in the early minutes of the second half but were denied by Saidou Panandetiguiri goal line clearance. Pitroipa and Emmanuel Adebayor both looked a little dangerous in another half that was filled with set pieces and wasted service.

The game fell into extra time and Burkina Faso seemed to grow and Abdul Razak was denied by a smart save. But the game was won in the depths of the first half when a set piece was finally taken advantage of; Charles Kabore's corner was headed home via the underside of the crossbar by Pitroipa. Togo didn't really make an effort to equalise and it perhaps surprising to note that Burkina Faso have only conceded one goal in the tournament as they now prepare for the semi-finals.    

Clock Strikes Twelve For Cape Verde as the Hosts Pay Penalty

Cape Verde's fairytale has finally come to an end as Ghana became the first team through to the semi-finals. The hosts, South Africa, were also dumped out of the tournament after losing to Mali on penalties. Mali will now meet the winners of Nigeria and Ivory Coast while Ghana have the rather easier challenge of playing the winners of Burkina Faso and Togo.

The start of the match between Ghana and Cape Verde was very much in the same vain of the rest of the tournament so far. The teams were happy enough with the ball in midfield but were then extremely wasteful in the final third, again leaving much to be desired. It was perhaps no surprise to see Ghana look to attack more but neither keeper needed a drink at half-time.

The game changer came on half-time when Wakaso Mubarak came back from suspension on replaced Albert Adomah. Ghana were given a great opportunity to break the deadlock when Asamoah Gyan was shoved over by Carlitos in the box nine minutes into the half. The referee pointed to the spot and it was Mubarak who stepped up and planted his penalty straight down the middle to put Ghana ahead.

Substitute Platini did look lively again for Cape Verde and managed to force a great save from Fatawu Dauda. Dauda was the main reason for Cape Verde not conceding with fantastic saves from Babanco and Djaniny. Wakaso almost ended up putting Ghana 2-0 ahead but his great chance was wasted, firing his shot miles over.

Ghana looked to be the more attacking in the final minutes but Dauda once again had to perform a great save  to keep Cape Verde at bay in the fourth minute of injury time. Cape Verde's hearts were finally broken when the keeper had come up for a corner and Ghana were able to break away. Wakaso easily placed the ball into the empty net to book their place into the last four once again.

The second quarter-final had to separated on penalties before Mali once again joined Ghana in the final four.
Mali had much of the ball in the opening but Bernard Parker actually had the first shot for South Africa. South Africa gained momentum from that and provided some excellent service down both wings, but the strikers couldn't find a shot.

The hosts finally managed to find a breakthrough when Thuso Phala mis-hit a May Mahlangu pass and the ball fell kindly to Tokelo Rantie. Rantie easily placed the ball into net to make it 1-0 just after the half hour mark. South Africa continued to be the better team and may have been slightly upset not to have gone into the tunnel at more than 1-0.

South Africa came began the second half as they finished the first but Lehlohonolo Majoro was quickly closed down by the keeper and unable to try and make it 2-0. Mali then hit the hosts with a sucker punch as they went straight up the other end and Mahamadou Samassa's cross was headed home by Seydou Keita, 13-minutes into the half. South Africa continued to be the more attacking side, but without really troubling the keeper and the game fell into extra time.

Itumeleng Khune managed to pull off a great save in the early part of extra time but Mali couldn't threaten during the first half while South Africa couldn't get in behind the 11-Mali players. The second half of extra time was mainly filled with unadventurous corners and the game unsurprisingly went into penalties.

South Africa went first and Siphiwe Tshabalala slotted home before Cheick Diabate levelled. Mali gained the upper hand when Dean Furman's effort was saved. Adama Tamboura easily made it 2-1 and Mahamane Traore made it 3-1 after Mahlangu's penalty was also saved. Majoro stepped up needing to score but his effort sailed miles wide and Mali were assured of their place in the semi-finals.  

Togo Join Ivory Coast In A Tempestuous Match

Togo will face Burkina Faso in the quarter finals after holding on to a point against Tunisia in a rather tempestuous affair and a real tale of penalties. Ivory Coast had already won the group and as Algeria were already eliminated, the other game in Group D was a dead rubber. But it was actually one of the most entertaining games as the Ivorians had to battle back from 2-0 down before finding two goals in the remaining 13-minutes to also scrape a draw before meeting Nigeria in the last eight.

With Togo and Tunisia playing on the beach pitch in Nelspruit, many would have been expecting a poor game especially with the crowd being at a minimal. With Togo only needing a draw to go through, it may have been a surprise to see them start the more attacking. They would get the breakthrough after 13-minutes when Emmanuel Adebayor put Serge Gapke through and neatly scored. But Gapke was clearly offside when Adebayor finally played the ball through and Tunisia had every right to feel aggrieved, especially if that cost them their place in the next round.

Tunisia finally got into the game a bit more halfway into the second half and they were awarded a penalty on the half hour mark. Dare Nibombe pushed Walid Hichri during a corner, Hichri did go down rather easily but a penalty was the right decision. Khaled Mouelhi stepped up and rather walked up to the ball before nonchalantly rolling the ball into the bottom corner.

The second half was more about penalties given and not given than any real clear cut shots or outstanding goalkeeping. Adebayor had a penalty shout early on in the second half before having a stone wall claim turned down on 69-minutes. The Spurs striker rounded the keeper, Agassa Kossi, before Kossi brought him down.

The Togolese were furious at the South African referee for somehow not awarding the penalty and seven minutes later Tunisia had been awarded a second penalty. Saber Khelifa had been tripped by Nibombe and the referee instantly pointed to the spot. Togo's anger threatened to boil over and Florian Ayite was booked for dissent before Adebayor joined for knocking the yellow card out of the referee's hand. Togo's protests hadn't finished as Kossi required a yellow card before finally going back onto his line. Mouelhi again stepped up and was as nonchalant as before. But this time his carelessness cost him as his effort hit the outside of the post and went to safety. Tunisia had a glorious chance to win it at the death but Fakhereddine Ben Youssef's close range effort was somehow parried away by Kossi and Togo's progression was ensured.

Despite already winning the group, it was a surprise to see Ivory Coast play a rather strong team against Algeria. Algeria had a glorious chance to take the lead after five minutes El Arbi Soudani was brought down by Ismael Traore, the referee pointed to the spot even though the foul took place just outside the box. Ryad Boudebouz stepped up but hit the post and Algeria remained without a goal in the tournament.

Algeria managed to redeem themselves when they were awarded another penalty on 64-minutes when Arthur Boka handled in the box. This time substitute Sofiane Feghouli stepped up smashed his effort into the corner. Algeria made it 2-0 seven minutes later Soudani headed a cross home, almost giving Algeria a surprise three points.

Ivory Coast responded on 77-minutes with Didier Drogba making 2-1 with a header from a looping delivery. Ivory Coast then levelled ten minutes from time with Wilfried Bony scoring after his shot was met with a wicked deflection to keep Ivory Coast unbeaten. Final table:

1. Ivory Coast 7 +4
2. Togo           4  +1
3. Tunisia         4  -2
4. Algeria         1 -3        

Holders Out as Ethiopia's Ill-Discipline Puts Nigeria Through

The holders of African Cup of Nations have been eliminated in the group stage. Zambia could only muster a goalless draw against Burkina Faso and it proved not to be enough, but become the third unbeaten to be ousted from the competition. Burkina Faso will avoid Ivory Coast in the quarter finals after managing to win the group on goal difference. On paper, Nigeria have set up a mouthwatering tie against the tournament favourites, but based on their performances so far, Ivory Coast may well be quite content with this fixture.

Nigeria only just scraped through to the knock-out phase and did so because of two penalties conceded by Ethiopia. Before either of the penalties had been conceding, it was looking like second place would be farcically decided by how many yellow and red cards Zambia and Nigeria had picked up. It almost got even worse as the second placed team could have been selected by a mere picking of lots.

With three of the four teams needing a win to secure a passage into the next round, it was extremely disappointing to see the lack of attacking intent or indeed goal threat imposed by them. With Burkina Faso only needing to avoid defeat to qualify, it was perhaps surprising to see them start the better against Zambia. But they were dealt an early blow when striker Alain Traore had to be stretchered off.

Despite this, Zambia should have taken the lead on 17-minutes when Collins Mbesuma was played in by Chisamba Lungu. But Mbesuma would strike it to the only place where he wouldn't score, apart from missing the target altogether, and hit it straight at the keeper. In the other game, it was Nigeria who started the better before they started conceding set-pieces.

With discipline a possible deciding factor on who progresses through, it was perhaps remarkable to see amount of bad challenges in both games. But the referees often dismissed a number of two footed challenges as just fouls. This may give a slight insight into why discipline does seem a little awry in this year's tournament.

It has also been disappointing to see how poor some of the service has been from the wings, but when the service has been good, the strikers have either not been in a good position or squandered the chance. Isaac Chansa was guilty of this right before half-time when his weak header was more catching practice for the keeper.

Nigeria had been the better side in the first half, but Ethiopia responded in the second in a bid to make a fight of the game. But they became unstuck 11-minutes from time when Victor Moses was brought down by Alula Girma in the box. The Chelsea man then got back to his feet to take the penalty and rolled it calmly into the bottom corner, asking the question why he didn't take the one against Zambia.

This question was even more affirmed in injury time when Moses converted a second penalty to guarantee their place in the knock-out phase. Moses was again brought down, this time by the keeper Sisay Bancha. Bancha had already been booked and would receive a second yellow card. This occurred five minutes before the end but because Ethiopia had used all three subs, Addis Hintsa had to go in goal. But he wasn't allowed to do so until he had changed his number to 23. After that rigmarole, Moses stepped up and again scored despite Hintsa guessing right. Final table:

1. Burkina Faso 5 +4
2. Nigeria          5 +2
3. Zambia          3  0
4. Ethiopia         1  -6  

Ghana Comfortably Through As Mali Also Progress

Ghana set up a quarter final tie against Cape Verde after comfortably winning Group B. A point for Mali was enough for them to oust DR Congo out of the competition and will now face the hosts South Africa in the second last eight tie. Unlike the late drama in Group A, all of the twists and turns came early on although there were chances for both Mali and DR Congo to win their match.

DR Congo quickly put themselves into the ascendency as Lomana LuaLua hit the post before Yves Ilunga was brought down by former Liverpool man, Mohamed Sissoko. The referee pointed to spot and Dieumerci Mbokani of Anderlecht stepped up and converted, giving DR Congo the lead after just three minutes. If the scores remained the same for the remaining 87-minutes DR Congo would go through with Ghana still winning the group on goal difference.

 Ghana began to take control of the group after just six minutes in their match with Asamoah Gyan finally opening his account with a cool short-range finish after a low cross. Niger thought that they had scored their first goal of the tournament by equalising and giving themselves a hope of qualifying on ten minutes. The ball went into the net from a set-piece but the referee disallowed it for an adjudged push in the box, a decision which was a little harsh.

Mali put themselves back into second spot after 14-minutes with the equaliser. Adama Tamboura worked well inside the box before laying the ball for Mamadou Samassa to tap home. This meant Mali would join Ghana with four points compared to DR Congo's three.

Ghana doubled their lead on 23-minutes when 21-year old Christian Atsu of Porto took full advantage of his first start in the tournament. Gyan floated the ball in for Atsu to chest down and roll home to almost guarantee themselves the three points.

Mali and DR Congo both created chances during the remainder of the first half. But the referee blew the whistle with the teams still level and Mali still going through. If anyone was going to score again in the other game, it was going to be Ghana as Niger failed to create and looked like they had already accepted their fate by half-time.

The only other goal in either game came four minutes into the second half and it once again came from Ghana to cap off a resounding victory. A header from Gyan was spilled by Kassaly Daouda and John Boye was on hand to scramble the ball over the line.

Mali were the stronger of the two sides in the second half but did have to face a late onslaught from DR Congo after being unable to find a winner. Fortunately for Mali, they managed to hold on as DR Congo couldn't produce a clear cut opportunity. Mali progress and, like Morocco, DR Congo fail to qualify despite being unbeaten while Niger exit the tournament without scoring a goal. Final table:

1. Ghana        7 +4
2. Mali           4   0
3. DR Congo  3  0    
4. Niger          1 -4

The Hosts and Little Cape Verde Through

The island of Cape Verde is populated by just 500,000 people. They progressed into this year's African Cup of Nations by beating Cameroon over two legs. Now they have overcome all odds by progressing to the quarter finals in a dramatic victory over Angola. The hosts South Africa ended up winning the group after coming from behind twice to earn a point against Morocco. All four members of Group A were on course for progression at one stage in a dramatic end to the group.

At the start of play, South Africa knew that they just had to avoid defeat to guarantee progression. A win for both Morocco and Cape Verde would also be enough for both of them progress. Angola had to win too and hope that South Africa didn't lose.

Morocco hit first when South Africa failed to deal with a corner. Issam El Adoua beats Itumeleng Khune to the corner and headed into the floor. The ball bounced up onto the underside of the crossbar before just crossing the line. As it stood, at this early stage, Morocco would win the group with South Africa progressing by a point over Cape Verde.

Angola kept their dream alive 12-minutes before half-time when Amaro's low cross was turned into his own net by Nando. At this point it still wouldn't have been enough for Angola as South Africa would still go through courtesy of that 2-0 victory over the Angolans. Morocco were still firmly in control of winning the group.

The remaining drama was late in coming, but it would come thick and fast. South Africa put Morocco's qualification in doubt on 79-minutes when May Mahlangu played a one-two with Tokelo Rantie before curling the ball beautifully into the top corner. This turned the group on its head as South Africa would now win it. But with Angola winning 1-0 in the other match, Angola would now scrape through on four points compared to Morocco's three.

But Cape Verde changed all of that with nine minutes to play when Heldon's corner was turned in by Fernando Varela after a goalmouth scramble. But Cape Verde's joy wouldn't last too long as Morocco would retake the lead in the other match a minute later. Abdelilah Hafidi found a cool finish after finding space in the box. This meant that with only eight minutes remaining, Morocco were once again going to win the group. South Africa would still just progress with four points compared to Cape Verde's three.

The drama still wasn't completed as South Africa would once again fight back with four minutes left. In slight deja vu to their first goal, South Africa's auxiliary striker, Siyabonga Sangweni, broke the offside trap before cutting back inside and curling the ball around the defender and classily into the bottom corner. This put South Africa back at the top of the group and Morocco would go through, agonisingly, on goals scored which was just one more than Cape Verde.

But the small Archipelago nation would have the last word in injury time and the substitute Heldon was at it again. This time he was the scorer that would send Cape Verde through whilst eliminating the Moroccan's with the latest of shows. Final Table:

1. South Africa    5 +2
2. Cape Verde    5 +1
3. Morocco         3  0
4. Angola            1 -3

Ivory Coast Through As Togo Set Up Winner Takes All Battle With Tunisia

Ivory Coast have become the first nation to definitely be through to the quarter finals. This comes courtesy of their second win in the tournament; a rather flattering 3-0 victory over Tunisia. Tunisia will now meet Togo in the final group game in a winner goes through match. A 2-0 win for Togo also means that Algeria become the first nation who are unable to progress into the knock-out round, setting up a dead rubber with Ivory Coast who are guaranteed to win the group.

Ivory Coast were extremely comfortable against Tunisia who didn't turn up in the first half. However, Tunisia did start the better with a few early corners that came to nothing. Gervinho was again looking dangerous and looked to be linking up well with Lacina Traore who started ahead of Didier Drogba. After all the possession, the breakthrough finally came on 21-minutes when again Gervinho and Traore played a neat one-two before the Arsenal striker classily looped the ball into the top corner, his second in the tournament.

Salomon Kalou should have made it 2-0 soon after, but failed to do so. From there, Ivory Coast had complete control of the half without really creating any more clear cut chances. Tunisia did have a little spell of pressure in the last five minutes of the half, but Ivory Coast were still at their most comfortable.

Tunisia were more involved in the second half without really creating anything, Youseff Msakni once again looking like a threat. Ivory Coast thought they had hit Tunisia with a sucker punch when Kalou netted from a Gervinho cross, but it was wrongly ruled out for offside and Tunisia were still in the match. Tunisia's best chance of the match came five minutes from the end when Saber Khelifa volleyed a cross while in acres of space, but his volley was straight at Boubacar Barry and the striker probably should have done better.

It was surprise that the chance Khelifa missed would prove to be crucial as Ivory Coast went up the other end with Yaya Toure unleashing that Premier League quality to beat a couple of defenders before smashing an excellent shot home, assuring all three points to the Elephants with three minutes to go. The icing was put onto the cake when substitute Didier Ya Konan finished a low shot within seconds of coming on.

Algeria and Togo shared the early moments in the match with Emmanuel Adebayor and Sofiane Feghouli both looking in the mood. It was a Feghouli corner that gave Algeria their best chance of taking the lead but Adlene Guedioura's header was well saved by Kossi Agassa. Shortly afterwards, Togo would break the deadlock when Adebayor was able to beat the offside trap a coolly finish with 13-minutes of the half remaining.

A couple of saves from Agassa prevented Algeria equalising and Togo went in with the lead at half-time. Algeria became slightly ill tempered in the second half, even more so when their decent shouts for a penalty were waved away even though Dejen Dakonam did look to bring Islam Slimani down. Algeria did put a lot of pressure on Togo but the Togolese defence was standing strong despite conceding numerous corners and free-kicks.

There was an extremely bizarre stoppage within the final ten minutes as Togo's goal frame was leaning in an unstable manner and needed sorting out after Feghouli had crashed into the net from a previous corner. The lengthy stoppage resulted in the goal being substituted for another and 13-minutes of injury time was to be played. This may have broken Algeria's momentum and Togo finally secured the victory when substitute Dove Wome slotted home after being put through on goal.

Possible Group Outcomes:

 - If Ivory Coast and Togo win = Both through with CIV group winners.
 - If Ivory Coast and Tunisia win = Both through with CIV group winners.
 - If Ivory Coast win and Togo v Tunisia ends in a draw = CIV win group, Togo progress on goal difference
 - If both games end in a draw = CIV win group, Togo progress on goal difference.
 - If Ivory Coast v Algeria ends in a draw & Togo win = CIV &Togo progress with CIV winning group.
 - If Ivory Coast v Algeria ends in a draw & Tunisia win - CIV & Tunisia progress with CIV winning group.
 - If Algeria & Togo win = CIV & Togo progress with CIV winning group on head to head.
 - If Algeria & Tunisia win = CIV & Tunisia progress with CIV winning group on head to head.
 - If Algeria win & Togo v Tunisia ends in a draw = CIV win group, Togo progress on goal difference.


 

Goalkeeper Equalises For Zambia While Ten Man Burkina Thrash Ethiopia

There was finally lots of goals to talk about as Burkina Faso take a surprise lead of Group C. It was a tale of two penalties between Zambia and Nigeria as goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene secured a point for Zambia five minutes from time. In perhaps, on paper, the most unappetising tie of the tournament, Burkina Faso versus Ethiopia, there was four goals and a sending off. The possible group outcomes will be reported further in.

The pitch at the Mbombela Stadium resembled more of a beach than a football carpet and it definitely caused problems for both teams. In fairness, both teams made a good go of it and made for a pretty entertaining game. Emmanuel Mayuka and Victor Moses didn't start in their opening matches but both looked threatening in the early going.

Nigeria were awarded a penalty halfway into the first half when Ahmed Musa was brought down by Davis Nkousa. For some reason, captain John Obi Mikel, who has been sent off more times for Chelsea than he has actually scored for them, decided to take it. Mikel has scored twice in 261 appearances for Chelsea and only three times for Nigeria in 38 games and he never looked like scoring as he stood over the penalty. True to form, Mikel ran up and his scuffed effort hit the post and somehow went out for a corner.

Zambia's best chance of the half came just before the half hour mark when Chisamba Lungu's effort was smartly saved by Vincent Enyeama. Nigeria started the better in the second half and Mikel managed to redeem himself 12-minutes into it. The Chelsea midfielder dispossessed Lungu and found Emmanuel Emenike to slot home for his second goal of the tournament.

Zambia looked to reply instantly but Rainford Kalaba couldn't beat Enyeama. But Zambia were given their chance five minutes before the end when Mayuka was tugged in the box by Ogenyi Onazi. It was a bit soft but well worth giving as everyone got to see the keeper, Mweene, step up and coolly sent Enyeama the wrong way to seal a point.

Burkina Faso, maybe surprisingly, dealt the first thrashing of the tournament. But it was Ethiopia who had the best opening chance when Shimeles Bekele was put through one on one, but his effort could only come back off the post. Both teams created chances in a rather attacking match and the deadlock was broken 11-minutes before half-time when Charles Kabore's cross was controlled and rifled into the roof of the net by Alain Traore, his second goal of the tournament.

Ethiopia looked unable to recover from the hammer blow, but were given a chance when Burkina Faso were down to ten men on the hour mark. In a similar incident to Ghana in the previous day, Abdoulaye Soulama caught the ball just outside of the box. But unlike Ghana, Soulama was sent off for deliberate handball.

But this didn't deter Burkina Faso and they would be 2-0 ahead on 74-minutes; Jonathan Pitroipa laid the ball off to Traore who smashed a magnificent shot from outside the box into the net. Five minutes later and Burkina had assured themselves of all three points when Djakaridja Kone finished off a neat one-two with Pitroipa. With two assists under his belt, Pitroipa deserved a goal and it came via a powered shot from the edge of the box in injury time.

Possible Group Outcomes

 - If Zambia & Nigeria both win = Both go through with goal difference determining group winner.
 - If Zambia & Ethiopia both win = Zambia win group, Burkina Faso progress on head to head with Ethiopia.
 - If Zambia win & Ethiopia v Nigeria ends in a draw = Zambia win group with Burkina Faso second.
 - If both games end in a draw = Burkina Faso win group, goals scored will determine who progresses out of Nigeria & Zambia.
 - If Zambia v Burkina Faso ends in a draw & Nigeria win = Nigeria and Burkina Faso progress, Nigeria will have to win by five goals to win group.
 - If Zambia v Burkina Faso ends in a draw & Ethiopia win = Burkina Faso win group, Ethiopia second.
 - If Burkina Faso & Nigeria both win = Both progress with Burkina Faso group winners.
 - If Burkina Faso & Ethiopia both win = Both progress with Burkina Faso group winners.
 - If Burkina Faso win & Ethiopia v Nigeria ends in a draw = Burkina Faso win group, Nigeria second.

Ghana Control Group B As Niger & DR Congo Share Another Goalless Draw

Ghana will go into the final group games as the most confident in Group B after a 1-0 victory over Mali. The defeat for Mali may set up a winner takes all battle against DR Congo who recorded a goalless draw against Niger, who claim their first ever point in African Cup of Nations history. Niger aren't out by any means but knowing that they have to win against Ghana and hope Mali fail to win can only grant them a place in the knock-out phase, and that's only on goal difference. Group possibilities will be outlined at the end.

The action between Ghana and Mali was rather few and far between in yet another underwhelming match between two, on paper, attacking teams. Ghana could have been down to ten men just after five minutes when Fatau Dauda mis-read a pass back and ended up handling the ball outside the box. This was deliberate handball and the Ivorian referee could have easily sent the keeper off instead of just brandishing the yellow.

Both teams showed some attacking intent without actually working either keeper. With only six shots on target throughout the whole game, it implies the little attacking class that shone through for another small crowd. The only goal of the game came seven minutes before half-time when Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu was brought down by Adama Tamboura. Mubarak Wakaso stepped to take the penalty and slotted it home.

Asamoah Gyan did look dangerous when Ghana attacked, but was never on hand to test the keeper or get a shot away. Another seven yellow cards also add to the already enormous tally and shows, again, how stop start African football has become, it turned to be a foul after every other minute.

The game between Niger and DR Congo fared no better as they had nearly 30 fouls in the first half alone. In fairness to them, only three yellow cards were brandished during the match. The closest anyone came to breaking the deadlock was on four minutes when Niger had broken through the defence and Modibo Sidibe was one-on-one with the keeper. The unattached striker opened his body up to curl the ball into the bottom corner, but he over thought his approach and ended up hitting the post.

DR Congo's main reason as to why they didn't score was Kassaly Daouda who performed a number of great saves. Niger had the best of the possession in the first half as DR Congo were happy to hit them on the counter attack with Lomana LuaLua being thwarted a number of times. The second half was largely uneventful with the teams easily cancelling each other out. But Niger will be the happiest as they gain their first AFCoN point.    

Possible Group Outcomes

 - If Ghana & Mali both win = Both through with Ghana group winners
 - If Ghana & DR Congo both win = Both through with Ghana group winners
 - If Ghana win & Mali v DR Congo ends in a draw = Ghana win group and Mali progress
 - If both games end in a draw = Ghana win group and Mali progress
 - If Ghana v Niger ends in a draw & Mali win = Mali win group and Ghana progress
 - If Ghana v Niger ends in a draw & DR Congo win = Ghana & DR Congo through. DR Cong will win group if they win by more than one goal otherwise it'll go on goals scored.
 - If Niger & Mali both win = Mali win group and Niger will progress on the head-to-head record with Ghana.
 - If Niger & DR Congo both win = Congo DR will progress on goal difference, Niger will progress on head-to-head with Ghana, may win group on goal difference.
 - If Niger win & Mali v DR Congo ends in a draw = Depending on goal difference, who progresses out of Ghana, Mali & Niger may be decided on goals scored.

Hosts Too Good For Angola As El Arabi Spares Morocco Defeat

Hosts South Africa will be the most confident team in Group A going into the final round of fixtures. That is because they have four points from their first two games after beating a lacklustre Angola 2-0. The defeat doesn't spell disaster for Angola though as Morocco managed an equaliser 12-minutes from time to get a draw in a tempestuous match against Cape Verde. This means that Morocco and Cape Verde have two points with Angola on one. Only a defeat for South Africa against Morocco will potentially prevent them from progressing. (Possible group outcomes shown at end of report)

After no goals in the opening fixtures, everyone was hoping it wouldn't take long for a goal to come between South Africa and Angola. Unfortunately for Angola fans, their side didn't really turn up for much of the game but it was a bit more flowing than the previous matches seen so far.

Angola did, however, have the first opening chances but were unable to hit the target. But South Africa quickly took hold of the game and were largely camped in the Angolan half, Thuso Phala posing a big threat down the wing and from set pieces. Numerous free-kicks were awarded to Tokelo Rantie and it finally caused Angola's down fall just before the half hour mark. Bernard Parker stood over the set piece and crossed for centre back Siyabongo Sangweni of the Orlando Pirates to smash home.

It's a worrying sign when your only striker is heading balls clear from your own box. This is exactly what Manucho spent most of the half doing, but when he was given the opportunity in the opposing half, he looked very threatening. A long ball easily beat the high South African line and Manucho almost got onto it except for Itumeleng Khune's header clear as he was just outside of his box. Another chance saw Manucho win the ball the air before heading it to Mateus who horribly fired over.  

Manucho would also have the opening chance in the second half but his shot from Mateus' cross was hit straight at Khune. The South African fans were upset when the danger man, Rantie, was substituted for Lehlohonolo Majoro, but within minutes Majoro breaks free down the wing before cutting inside the six yard box and scoring through the goalkeeper's legs, making it 2-0 on 62-minutes.

The final moments of play were end to end as Angola finally looked to spark into life. But they couldn't beat Khune who almost set up Majoro for a second if the striker's lob had finished underneath the net instead of on the roof. But South Africa easily held on and are all but assured of their place in the next round.

After a largely free-flowing game, many hoped for the same between Morocco and Cape Verde but they were largely disappointed. 25 fouls in just under the opening 30-minutes goes to show how bitty this game was but it was actually Cape Verde who looked the more threatening.

Morocco were once again largely underwhelming despite Oussama Assaidi having the first real shot in anger. Cape Verde also went close just after 20-minutes when Ryan Mendes had his dangerous free-kick smartly parried away. It was no surprise to see Cape Verde take the lead ten minutes before half-time as they were well worth it. Luis Platini had a good showing against South Africa in the last match and it was he who scored the goal; sloppy defending allowed Mendes to steal the ball and play Platini in and the striker coolly chips the ball over the diving keeper to score Cape Verde's first ever African Cup of Nations goal.

The same was largely present in the second half, Morocco poor and relying on route one stuff with Mendes and Platini providing a real threat for Cape Verde. The tension rose in the second half as more tackles flew in, a big blow for Morocco saw Younes Belhanda pick up his second booking in the tournament and could be a crucial miss against South Africa.

Perhaps undeservedly, Morocco would level 12-minutes from time when Abelaziz Barrada worked his way down the wing before pulling the back for half-time substitute Youssef El-Arabi to slot home. From there, both teams looked dangerous and Morocco were perhaps more deserving of the point based on their last 20-minutes. El-Arabi looked the most dangerous but he couldn't find a winner and the teams walked off with a point apiece.

Possible Outcomes in Final Group Games:

 - South Africa & Cape Verde both win = both through with SA group winners.
 - South Africa & Angola both win = both through with SA group winners.
 - South Africa win & Cape Verde v Angola is a draw = SA and CV through with SA group winners.
 - Both games end in a draw = SA win group, whoever scores the most goals between Cape Verde and  - Morocco goes through.
 - South Africa v Morocco is a draw & Cape Verde win = CV and SA through, goal difference determines group winner.
 - South Africa v Morocco is a draw & Angola win = SA win group and Angola progress
 - Morocco win & Cape Verde v Angola is a draw = Morocco and SA go through with Morocco group winners.
 - Morocco & Cape Verde both win = Both through, goal difference determines group winner.
 - Morocco & Angola both win = Morocco win group, SA progress on head-to-head with Angola

Ivory Just Out-Class Togo as Msakni Magic Wins It For Tunisia

After five draws in the opening six games, it was refreshing to see Group D begin with two winning results. Ivory Coast were expected to walk over Togo with the amount of past and present Premiership quality on show, but they needed a late goal from Gervinho to win 2-1. Algeria and Tunisia also looked to be heading to the second goalless draw of the tournament, but a screamer from Youssef Msakni in injury time gave Tunisia the valuable three points.

Togo looked much quicker out of the blocks and Kolo Toure also cost Ivory Coast within the opening two minutes when his failed pass back put Emmanuel Adebayor in. But the Spurs striker couldn't convert chance after the defence got back to recover to force him wide. But Ivory Coast's class shone through as they took the lead with their first chance after just eight minutes. Arsenal's Gervinho jinxed his way through the defence before the ball sprung loose. It fell into the path of Manchester City's Yaya Toure who smashed it home via a deflection.

This seemed the set the tone of the game and would it become a question of how many. But this wasn't the case as Togo dealt with the lively Gervinho while Adebayor continued to threaten his former Arsenal teammate, Kolo Toure. A minute before half time and it was almost deja vu when Yaya Toure found himself in the same sort of space he scored from. But this time his shot cannoned off the post and Togo were spared.

Straight from that miss, Togo went up the other end and won a corner. The Ivory Coast defence didn't deal with it properly and Jonathan Ayite crept in to stab it home with virtually the last kick of the half. Togo though they should have taken the lead just before the hour mark. It was another corner which got turned in. But the referee disallowed it because he felt substitute Salomon Kalou was still entering the field of play.

The speed and flow of the game decreased as the second half progressed but both teams had chances to win it. Yaya Toure had a shot smartly saved by Kossi Agassa while Togo were seeking to create another chance from another corner. The winner finally came two minutes from time when Yaya Toure's free-kick flew over everyone until Gervinho managed a smart flick with the outside of his foot to score from an acute angle. Togo did get a corner in the dying seconds, but it was easily defended and Ivory Coast held onto the three points.

The second match between Algeria and Tunisia was just as easily anticipated and on paper looked to be a heated but talented affair from the two rivals. But, like many of the opening eight games, it failed to really hit the highs of international football.

Also like many of the games so far, a lot of fouls caused the match to be very stop-start. Tunisia were dealt a blow just after the quarter of an hour mark when Issam Jemaa had to be substituted after picking up an injury. The fouls continued to to hamper the game but Algeria came the closest to breaking the deadlock when Islam Slimani smashed the crossbar from a header just before the half hour mark.

The first half would only really remembered for the amount of petty fouls but Rais Mbolhi did produce a good save to prevent Saber Khelifa from breaking the deadlock. The second half was just as bitty as the first, the first real chance came to Djamel Mesbah but his shot just missed the post and went wide.

Algeria did have most of the ball in the second half but couldn't carve any real opportunities to give them lead. Tunisia's best effort of the half came 15-minutes from the end when Hamdi Harbaoui's shot also just sailed wide. With the game petering out to a goalless draw until 22-year old Youssef Msakni smashed a fantastic shot, out of nowhere, into the top corner to give Tunisia all three points. Msakni looked a hot young prospect last year and this goal may begin to continue to prove it.  
  

Zambia and Nigeria Start With 1-1 Draws

Both of the favourites to progress from Group C began their campaigns with 1-1 draws after initially taking the lead. Defending champions Zambia were in perhaps the most dramatic match of the tournament so far against 10-man Ethiopia while 10-man Nigeria suffered a late blow against Burkina Faso.

Zambia began the match looking the much better team and perhaps the brightest of the tournament so far. Ethiopia were struggling to resist the passing game run by Christopher Katongo and their bungled attempts of playing from the back only gave Zambia more impetus.

Despite this attacking intent, it was actually Ethiopia would claim the first corner and also have the clearest sight on goal. A long ball from the defence was completely missed by Stophira Sunzu which allowed Saladin Said in on goal. The hard, dry pitch caused the ball to bounce higher than normal and Said could only poke the ball over Kennedy Mweene. On any other pitch, the poke would have been enough to drop right into the net to give Ethiopia the lead. But the pitch caused the ball to bounce just as high as before and over the bar.

25-minutes in and Ethiopia were given another fantastic opportunity to take a shock lead in the match. Said was tripped by Chisamba Lungu in the box and the referee had no option but to award a penalty. Said stepped up but his placement was telegraphed and easily saved by Mweene.

Ten minutes before half-time Ethiopia were in trouble as Jemal Tassew tried to kung-fu clear a ball. But Lungu got their first and the keeper firmly caught Lungu in the mid-riff. Whether he knew it or not, Tassew was always going to get red carded for it. But the keeper rolled on the floor and ultimately got stretchered off  whilst the red card was brandished. If that stoppage wasn't enough, officials then delayed play even more as some Ethiopian fans had thrown bottles and other items onto the field.

Once action had got back underway, Zambia looked to take immediate advantage of the man deficit. They did so just before half-time when a great passing move ended with Issac Chansa playing the ball in for Collins Mbesuma to chest down and score.

Again, Ethiopia's wish to play the ball from the back caused them problems in the second half as Zambia tried to score more goals. Zambia did miss chances to get a second and the were caught cold by the ten men. Said found himself in acres of space on the right and played the ball into Adane Grima who coolly finished in off the post to find that crowd lifting equaliser.

This opened the game right up but neither could find that killer blow to take all three points. Emmanuel Mayuka came on for a late spell and looked very energetic, but he also couldn't beat substitute keeper Zerihun Tadele. It's a result that Zambia will be slightly upset with and will be hoping for more next time around but Ethiopia will be celebrating their first match in the AFCoN since the 70s.

With Zambia only managing a draw, this gave Nigeria a huge opportunity to take control with victory over Burkina Faso. They looked to be grabbing the chance with both hands as Burkina Faso couldn't handle them to begin with. Ideye Aide Brown should have given Nigeria the lead, but his effort from a low cross from ten yards sailed over the bar.

The Nigerians' class finally broke the deadlock on 23-minutes when a classy Ideye flick with his heel found Spartak Moscow's Emmanuel Emenike who neatly finished with the outside of his foot. Burkina Faso didn't really threaten much in the first apart from a number of free-kicks caused by cynical Nigerian fouls.

Burkina Faso created a few more chances in the second half and probably should have equalised but Vincent Enyeama was doing his very best to keep Nigeria in front. But Nigeria's ill-discipline would finally cost them as Efe Ambrose was shown a second yellow card with 16-minutes to play.

This didn't seem to deter Nigeria until the final minutes where Burkina Faso began to play better and look more attacking. Jonathan Pitroipa managed to find pull back which Nigeria couldn't intercept. It fell to the path of Alain Traore who managed to slot home to pick up a surprise point with the final kick of the match.

Ghana Stunned As They Lose Two Goal Lead - Mali Take Control of Group

The goals came on the second day of the African Cup of Nations. The teams of Group B took to the stage for their opening matches and shared five goals between them. Group favourites Ghana faced DR Congo and looked like comfortable winners at 2-0, only to see DR Congo fight back to earn a dramatic point. Mali would then have to wait until late on to see off Niger and take the lead of the group.

The first half between Ghana and DR Congo was pretty balanced. The former Newcastle ace Lomana LuaLua would have the best chance early on but his shot was smartly tipped over the bar. That early chance provided momentum for DR Congo and they grew further into the game with Youssouf Mulumbu enjoying his key role.

As the half drew to a close, the ball began to camp in the midfield before Ghana started creating opportunities, Asamoah Gyan missing a shot where he probably should have scored. Ghana then managed to break the deadlock five minutes before half-time when 22-year old Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu from Udinese finished off a neat move that saw a one-two between Gyan and Kwadwo Asamoah.

The goal didn't seem to dampen DR Congo's spirits but it would be Ghana who struck first in the second period; Asamoah heading a corner in off the crossbar after just four minutes to make it 2-0. Ghana's two goal advantage only lasted four minutes as DR Congo again continued to battle well. Cedric Makiadi of Freiburg would find a great low cross for Mazembe's Tresor Mputu to stab home.

Mputu would almost equalise moments later, but his shot was blocked by John Pantsil. That was followed by Gyan missing another fabulous opportunity to open his account for the tournament. With just over 20-minutes to play, Makiadi would be fouled in the box by Jerry Akaminko giving DR Congo a penalty. Makiadi stepped up and converted it to draw the sides level. Both Mulumbu and Gyan had a late chance to win the game, but neither keeper would be beaten a third time.

With that game ending in a draw, Mali and Niger both had the chance to go top of the group and take control. Both teams looked quite content in the middle of the park and down the wings but neither could quite their crosses to an intended target. Kassaly Daouda was made to look fragile in the Niger goal as he made hard work of a few lofted balls.

When the ball was slow or along the floor, Daouda had no trouble. But his weakness in the air would be highlighted once again from a free-kick before the half was over. Mali looked to be in control throughout most of the match but they just couldn't find the killer blow to beat Daouda. The only goal of the game finally came six minutes from time when their main man, Seydou Keita pounced after Daouda once again failed to deal with a cross.      

No Goals To Start African Cup of Nations

The 2013 African Cup of Nations didn't really get going on opening night. The two games produced no goals as the nerves looked to get the better of Group A. The hosts South Africa faced Cape Verde as Angola went on to face Morocco.

The unknown package of Cape Verde had a rather good showing in the first half against South Africa. They had the best chance in the half when Platini was played through, but unlike his UEFA namesake, the striker scuffed his shot wide of the mark. Apart from that, neither team could grab the game by the scruff of the neck and this left the South African crowd very flat.

The changes during the second half made South Africa a little more attacking and arguably the better team as Cape Verde looked to tire. The only problem was South Africa quickly ran out of ideas when their long ball technique failed. As for Cape Verde, they also couldn't find a killer pass in the final third and would be quick to surrender to possession in the midfield. The fans looked more interested in their continuous Mexican wave rather than the underwhelming action on the pitch.

After the first 0-0, this should have given both Angola and Morocco the impetus to take control of the group.  Morocco were the better team in the first half without really putting the keeper under any pressure. Oussama Assaidi looked the brightest and continued to find space down the wing. Manucho was Angola's only real attacking option on the pitch but he didn't a shot in anger until the final minute of the half due to the poor service.

Angola were much improved in the second period but Morocco still looked the more threatening. The biggest problem Morocco faced was their own discipline, they continuously fouled throughout the game. This allowed Angola to continue to try and find Manucho with hopeful punts forward.

It could be argued that Morocco missed that spark that perhaps Adel Taarabt would have brought to the table on his day. Angola came on stronger in the final minutes with Manucho having two glorious chances to score, but failed with both of them.

Unfortunately, based on these performances, it wouldn't appear that the overall winner will emerge from this group unless a massive improvement is made. But things will improve and the African Cup of Nations will spark into life.

2013 African Cup of Nations Preview

The 2013 African Cup of Nations in South Africa kicks off later today and here's a round-up of the groups and teams participating:

Group A: The hosts sit in a rather tough group where only two of three candidates will make it through. South Africa are likely to progress but only have two English football representatives. Kagisho Dikgacoi from Crystal Palace and Oldham's Dean Furman. Perhaps the surprise omission is Steven Pienaar. The Kaizer Chiefs boast a strong representation, full of players to watch: Itumeleng Khune is a very capable goalkeeper with defenders Siboniso Gaxa and Tsepo Masilela the most experienced defenders in the squad. Siphiwe Tshabalala scored that World Cup goal against Mexico and is their most capped player with Reneilwe Letsholonyane providing a service on the other wing for strikers Bernard Parker and Orlando Pirates' Katlego Mphela.

Angola and Morocco are likely to be fighting for a spot alongside South Africa in the next round. Angola's most notable player is former Manchester United striker Manucho, who had a very good tournament last year. Only eight players from the squad play outside of Angola so it's hard to know how good they'll be. Marco Airosa, Zuela, Dede and Gilberto do play in Cyprus. Angola missed out on the knock-out phase last year on goal difference, so will be looking to get through this time.

Morocco were underwhelming last year, finishing third in their group. Perhaps somewhat surprisingly, Marouane Chamakh and Adel Taarabt both miss out on a place in the squad but Aston Villa's Karim El Ahmadi and Liverpool's Oussama Assaidi will feature. Galatasaray's Nordin Amrabat will be looking to provide the biggest goal threat.

It's the first time Cape Verde have qualified for the African Cup of Nations. But they already boast the biggest shock of the tournament, preventing Cameroon from qualifying. Despite this, only two members of their squad actually play in their native country. As Cape Verde speak Portuguese, it's no surprise to see that the majority of squad play in Portugal. Ryan Mendes may be the player to watch as he plies his trade for Lille.

Group B: Ghana should be pretty comfortable in group B with only Mali looking to provide any real threat. They were in the same group last year and both managed to progress before Mali managed to beat them in the third/fourth place play-off. Only Bristol City's Albert Adomah represent's Ghana from English football. But it will be a chance to once again watch former Premier League players, John Pantsil and Asamoah Gyan. Juventus' Kwadwo Asamoah will also be a good watch. As for an unknown, how about Solomon Asante from the interestingly named Berekum Chelsea.

Mali have three Premier League players in their squad; Mahamadou Diarra from Fulham, Samba Diakite from QPR and Modibo Maiga from West Ham with Tongo Doumbia coming from Wolves. The majority of the squad come from France with Lens' Samba Sow and former Premier League star, Mohamed Sissoko being the most appetising. Former Barcelona player, Seydou Keita, will also be a joy to watch.

Niger qualified for the first time in their history last year and will be looking to at least get a point this time around. Only three members of their squad play outside of Africa; Ismael Alassane for Al Sahel of Kuwait, William N'Gounou of Sweden's Limhamn and 19-year old Amadou Moutari of Le Mans B team.With only three players above the age of 30, this team is very youthful and inexperienced which could make them minnows or be a scouting dream.

DR Congo are two times winners of the ACN but haven't qualified since 2006. West Brom's Youssouf Mulumbu headlines the squad with Crystal Palace's Yannick Bolasie providing great back-up. Unsurprisingly, the majority of the squad do play in DR Congo and again only three players are older than 30. Toko Nzuzi will be an interesting watch. The 22-year old plays for Switzerland's Grasshopper Zurich but his eligibility has been questioned after already playing a full international for the Congo national team before deciding to play for DR Congo.

Group C: Reigning champions, Zambia, should progress through this group. After last year's success, Emmanuel Mayuka managed to get a transfer to Southampton, although it hasn't been a great start to Premiership life. Stophira Sunzu is assigned to Reading but, like Mayuka, hasn't really featured this season. Christopher Katongo was also vital for Zambia last year and has since managed to get a move to China. The interesting statistic surrounds Porto's Emmanuel Mbola. At just 19-years old, Mbola has already represented Zambia a staggering 32-times. A player to watch will be defender Nathan Sinkala who is only 21 and currently plays for Mazembe in DR Congo.

Nigeria surprisingly didn't qualify for last year's tournament but should be pretty strong this year. Chelsea's John Obi Mikel and Victor Moses are the Premier League's only representatives with Efe Ambrose of Celtic also in the squad. Former Everton star Joseph Yobo will also be gracing the television screens once again. Keep an eye on Spartak Moscow's Emmanuel Emenike who should be amongst the goals and their goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama who has actually scored for Nigeria.

Burkina Faso will hoping for a better showing than their pointless showing last year. Their three notable players are defender Bakary Kone of Lyon, midfielder Charles Kabore of Marseille and striker Alain Traore of Auxerre. Despite only having two players older than 30, it is quite an old squad as Germain Sanou is their youngest player at 20 but is their third choice keeper so may not get a look in. Soumaila Belem is the second youngest member at 21, he plays in defence for Ivory Coast's Africa Sports.

Ethiopia haven't played in an ACN tournament since 1982 and will very much be the minnows in the group. Only three of their players play football outside of Ethiopia so they are very much the unknown package. Midfielder Yussuf Saleh plays for Sweden's Syrianska, while strikers Saladin Said and Fuad Ibrahim play for Egypt's Wadi Degla and USA's Minnesota Stars respectively. With four of their five strikers under the age of 25, the stage could be set for one of them to shine and gain a big money move.

Group D: The tournament favourites, Ivory Coast, are arguably in the group of death but shouldn't really have any problems if they play to their fullest. Their team boasts the most stars with Kolo and Yaya Toure, Abdul Razak, Cheick Tiote, Gervinho and Arouna Kone all coming from the Premier League. But there are also plenty of former English league representatives, Emmanuel Eboue (formerly of Arsenal), Sol Bamba (formerly of Leicester), Didier Zokora (formerly of Tottenham), Max Gradel (formerly of Leeds) and of course Didier Drogba making this team the strongest.

From there it should be one team from the remaining three as all have a chance of qualifying. The 2004 champions, Tunisia, made it to the quarter finals last year. The majority of their squad do play in Tunisia but strikers Zouheir Dhaouadi and Saber Khelifa, midfielder Wahbi Khazri and defender Aymen Abdennour do play in France. 22-year old Youssef Msakni looked very good last year and currently plays for Qatar's Lekhwiya.

Algeria may be the slight favourites to join Ivory Coast. Only Adlene Guedioura for Nottingham Forest plays his football in England. Former Millwall player Hamuer Bouazza, Sofiane Feghouli, Medhi Lacen and Liassane Cadamuro-Bentaiba play in Spain while Carl Medjani, Foued Kadir, Ryad Boudebouz and Mehdi Mostefa play in France. Perhaps the player to watch may be defender Djamel Mesbah who plays for AC Milan.

Togo haven't qualified since 2006 after being hit by that rebel attack in 2010. That attack did see Emmanuel Adebayor announce his retirement from international football, but he has undone that by choosing to participate this year. Adebayor is joined by Wolves' Abdoul-Razak Boukari from the English ranks. Former Aston Villa player Moustapha Salifou has also been called up. The majority of the squad do play in France and there are a number of 21-22 year olds. Dove Wome of South Africa's Free State Stars and Prince Segbefia of Auxerre may be worth watching in the midfield.