CAN 2024 in detail: Who will be the favorite, the outsider, the itchy hair and the little Tom Thumb of Group A?
The 2024 Africa Cup of Nations promises to be an exciting and competitive tournament, especially in Group A. In this article, we will analyze the teams of Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea and the Guinea-Bissau to determine who has the best potential to shine in this competition.
Ivory Coast is undoubtedly the favorite of the group. With a squad full of stars and a new coach in Jean-Louis Gasset, the Elephants are ready to take on the challenge. They have just gone five matches without defeat, showing excellent form. With players like Seko Fofana, the Ivorian team is balanced on all lines and could well win its third African Cup of Nations.
Nigeria, meanwhile, is considered a fragile outsider. After disappointing during the last edition of the CAN, the Super Eagles are struggling to regain their level. Their squad is divided, with many spectacular attackers but deficiencies in other areas of play. Despite their status as three-time African champions, the Nigerians cannot be considered favorites in this group.
Equatorial Guinea has consistently performed well in the Africa Cup of Nations since its first participation in 2012. The team is tough and united, and has not lost any of its last nine matches. With experienced players like Emilio Nsué, Equatorial Guinea could cause problems for the other teams in the group and aim for a place in the round of 16.
Finally, Guinea-Bissau, although not yet having won a match in the final phase of the CAN, is showing signs of progress. Under the leadership of coach Baciro Candé, the team is gradually strengthening. Their victory against Nigeria in March 2023 and their draw against Burkina Faso recently show interesting potential. Guinea-Bissau could thus be the problem of the group.
In conclusion, Group A of CAN 2024 promises exciting encounters. Ivory Coast is the favorite, but Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea and Guinea-Bissau are not to be underestimated. Everything remains open and only the field will tell who will qualify for the round of 16. African football fans can’t wait to see these teams compete and discover what surprises this group has in store.