The 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (abbreviated as AFCON 2019 or CAN 2019), known as the Total 2019 Africa Cup of Nations for sponsorship reasons, was the 32nd edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, the biennial international men's football championship of Africa organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The tournament was hosted by Egypt. The competition was held from 21 June to 19 July 2019, as per the decision of the CAF Executive Committee on 20 July 2017 to move the Africa Cup of Nations from January/February to June/July for the first time. It was also the first Africa Cup of Nations expanded from 16 to 24 teams.
Everything You Need to Know About Africa Cup of Nations - Egypt 2019
The Africa Cup of Nations is one of the most anticipated events in African football, bringing together the best teams from across the continent to compete for the prestigious title. This year, Egypt has the honor of hosting the tournament, with matches taking place in several cities across the country. Football fans from around the world will be tuning in to watch their favorite teams battle it out on the pitch. The Africa Cup of Nations is not only a showcase of talent and skill, but also a celebration of African culture and unity. Fans can expect to see electrifying matches, passionate supporters, and unforgettable moments that will go down in football history. From the favorites like Egypt and Nigeria, to the underdog teams looking to make a mark, this tournament promises to be full of excitement and surprises. Join us as we dive into everything you need to know about the Africa Cup of Nations - Egypt 2019.
Overview of Africa Cup of Nations history Teams to watch out for in Egypt 2019 Key players to keep an eye on during the tournament Venues and cities hosting the matches Predictions for the winner of Africa Cup of Nations - Egypt 2019
Overview of Africa Cup of Nations history
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is the most prestigious football tournament in Africa, bringing together the best national teams on the continent to compete for the title of African champions. First held in 1957, the tournament has a rich history and has been a platform for showcasing the immense talent of African footballers. Over the years, the tournament has grown in popularity and significance, with more nations participating and millions of fans tuning in to watch the games. The AFCON has also produced some unforgettable moments and iconic players who have left their mark on the competition. One of the key reasons behind the AFCON's success is the passion and love for the sport that runs deep in Africa. Football is more than just a game on the continent - it is a way of life, a source of pride, and a means of unity and solidarity. The AFCON embodies these values and celebrates the diversity and talent of African football. The tournament is held every two years, with the host country selected through a bidding process. In 2019, Egypt was chosen as the host for the 32nd edition of the AFCON. This will be the fifth time that Egypt has hosted the tournament, having previously done so in 1959, 1974, 1986, and 2006. The AFCON has undergone several changes throughout its history, including alterations to the format and the number of teams participating. Initially, the tournament featured just three teams, but it has since expanded to include up to 24 teams, making it one of the largest football tournaments in the world. The reigning champions of the AFCON are Cameroon, who won the title in 2017 after defeating Egypt in the final. The Egyptian national team holds the record for the most AFCON titles, having won the tournament seven times. Other successful teams include Ghana, Nigeria, and Ivory Coast, who have also had their fair share of glory in the competition. The AFCON has not only showcased the talents of African players but has also provided a platform for emerging talents to shine on the international stage. Many African players who have excelled in the tournament have gone on to have successful careers in top European leagues, becoming household names in world football. The AFCON is more than just a football tournament - it is a celebration of African culture, history, and unity. The tournament brings together nations from across the continent, each with its unique style of play and passionate fan base. The AFCON is a reflection of the diversity and richness of African football, and it continues to inspire generations of players and fans alike. As the Africa Cup of Nations - Egypt 2019 approaches, football fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the spectacle that is sure to unfold. With a history as storied and impactful as the AFCON, there is no doubt that this year's tournament will once again captivate audiences and showcase the best of African football.
Teams to watch out for in Egypt 2019
The Africa Cup of Nations is one of the most prestigious tournaments in African football, and this year’s edition in Egypt promises to be an exciting and highly competitive event. As the tournament kicks off, there are several teams that fans and pundits alike will have their eyes on, eager to see how they will perform on the grand stage. One of the teams to watch out for in Egypt 2019 is Egypt itself. The host nation boasts a rich footballing history and has won the Africa Cup of Nations a record seven times. Led by Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah, Egypt will be looking to make a strong statement on home soil and add to their impressive tally of titles. The passionate home support is sure to be a major advantage for the Pharaohs, and they will be a force to be reckoned with in the tournament. Another team that will be keenly followed is Nigeria. The Super Eagles have a talented squad packed with top-class players who ply their trade in Europe’s top leagues. With the likes of Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Ahmed Musa in their ranks, Nigeria will be looking to recapture the glory of their three Africa Cup of Nations titles and show that they are once again a force to be reckoned with on the continent. Defending champions Cameroon will also be a team to keep an eye on. The Indomitable Lions took home the trophy in 2017 and will be eager to defend their title in Egypt. With a strong squad featuring experienced players like Vincent Aboubakar and Christian Bassogog, Cameroon will be looking to make a statement and show that they are still a dominant force in African football. Senegal is another team that will be closely watched in Egypt 2019. The Lions of Teranga have a talented squad led by the likes of Sadio Mane, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Idrissa Gueye. Senegal has never won the Africa Cup of Nations, but they will be hoping that this year is their time to shine and claim their first ever title. With a strong mix of youth and experience, Senegal will be a team to watch out for in the tournament. Lastly, Algeria will be a team that many will have their eyes on in Egypt 2019. The Desert Foxes boast a talented squad featuring players like Riyad Mahrez, Sofiane Feghouli, and Yacine Brahimi. Algeria has a history of performing well in the Africa Cup of Nations, with their only title coming in 1990. They will be looking to add to their trophy cabinet and show that they are contenders for the title this year. In conclusion, the Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt 2019 promises to be an exciting and closely contested tournament, with several teams vying for glory. Egypt, Nigeria, Cameroon, Senegal, and Algeria are just a few of the teams that fans and pundits will be keeping a close eye on as the action unfolds. With so much talent on display, the tournament is sure to be a thrilling showcase of African football at its finest.
Key players to keep an eye on during the tournament
As the Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Egypt in 2019, there are several key players that fans and pundits alike will be keeping a close eye on throughout the tournament. These players have the potential to make a significant impact on their respective teams and the overall outcome of the competition. One player who will undoubtedly be under close scrutiny is Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian forward has been in scintillating form for both club and country in recent years, and all eyes will be on him to see if he can replicate his club success on the international stage. Salah will be looking to lead his team to glory on home soil and add to his growing list of individual accolades. Sadio Mane is another player who will be crucial to his team's chances of success in the tournament. The Senegalese forward has been instrumental for Liverpool in their recent Champions League triumph and will be hoping to carry that form into the Africa Cup of Nations. Mane's speed, skill, and eye for goal will make him a threat to any opposition defense. Riyad Mahrez is a player who will be looking to make a big impression for Algeria. The Manchester City winger has the ability to change a game in an instant with his pace and trickery on the ball. Mahrez will be instrumental in unlocking stubborn defenses and providing key assists for his teammates. Naby Keita will be a key figure for Guinea in the tournament. The dynamic midfielder has been impressing for Liverpool since his move from RB Leipzig and will be looking to carry that form into the Africa Cup of Nations. Keita's ability to drive forward with the ball and pick out a killer pass will be crucial to Guinea's chances of success. Wilfried Zaha will be a player to watch for Ivory Coast. The Crystal Palace forward is known for his explosive pace and skill on the ball, making him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Zaha will be key to Ivory Coast's attacking play and will be hoping to make a big impact in the tournament. Lastly, Hakim Ziyech will be a player to keep an eye on for Morocco. The Ajax playmaker has been in outstanding form in the Eredivisie and the Champions League this season, and will be looking to showcase his talents on the international stage. Ziyech's creativity, vision, and ability to score goals from midfield will be crucial to Morocco's chances of success. Overall, these key players will be instrumental in shaping the outcome of the Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt. Their performances will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike, as they look to lead their respective teams to glory in one of Africa's premier international competitions.
Venues and cities hosting the matches
The Africa Cup of Nations, set to take place in Egypt in 2019, will feature matches across several venues and cities in the country. With a total of 24 teams competing for the prestigious title, fans from all over Africa and beyond are eagerly awaiting the tournament. One of the main venues for the tournament is the Cairo International Stadium in Egypt's capital city, Cairo. With a seating capacity of over 70,000, this iconic stadium has hosted numerous football matches over the years and will serve as the centerpiece for the Africa Cup of Nations. Cairo is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and vibrant culture, making it an exciting backdrop for the tournament. Another key venue is the 30 June Stadium in Cairo, which will also host several matches throughout the tournament. With a seating capacity of around 30,000, this stadium is known for its electric atmosphere during football matches and is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for fans. Other cities hosting matches include Alexandria, Suez, and Ismailia, each with their own unique charm and attractions. Alexandria, known for its Mediterranean coastline and ancient history, will host matches at the Alexandria Stadium. Suez, a bustling port city on the Red Sea, will host matches at the Suez Stadium. Ismailia, located on the banks of the Suez Canal, will host matches at the Ismailia Stadium. Each of these cities offers a different experience for fans attending the Africa Cup of Nations, from historic sites and cultural attractions to beautiful coastlines and bustling markets. Fans will have the opportunity to explore these cities and immerse themselves in the local culture while cheering on their favorite teams. In addition to the main venues, training facilities and accommodations have been arranged for all participating teams in various cities across Egypt. This ensures that teams have the necessary resources and support to perform at their best during the tournament. Overall, the venues and cities hosting the matches for the Africa Cup of Nations - Egypt 2019 offer a diverse and exciting backdrop for the tournament. With iconic stadiums, lively cities, and rich cultural heritage, fans can look forward to an unforgettable experience as they support their teams and celebrate the spirit of African football.
Predictions for the winner of Africa Cup of Nations - Egypt 2019
The Africa Cup of Nations - Egypt 2019 is set to be one of the most exciting tournaments in recent memory, with some of the continent's best footballing nations vying for glory. As the competition draws closer, fans and experts alike are starting to make their predictions on who will emerge victorious. One team that is always a strong contender for the title is Egypt, the host nation. The Pharaohs have won the tournament a record seven times and will have the backing of their passionate home crowd. With the likes of Mohamed Salah leading the way, Egypt will be a force to be reckoned with and will undoubtedly be one of the favorites to lift the trophy. Another team expected to go far in the tournament is Senegal. The Lions of Teranga boast a talented squad featuring players such as Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly, making them a formidable opponent for any team. Senegal are yet to win the Africa Cup of Nations, but they have the quality and the experience to go all the way this year. Nigeria is another team that will be looking to make a strong impression in Egypt. The Super Eagles have a proud history in the tournament, having won it three times in the past. With young talents like Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi in their ranks, Nigeria will be a team to watch out for and could potentially surprise many with a deep run in the competition. Defending champions Cameroon will also be looking to defend their title and add to their five Africa Cup of Nations victories. The Indomitable Lions have a rich footballing history and have always been a tough team to beat in the tournament. With experienced players like Vincent Aboubakar and Andre Onana in their squad, Cameroon will be aiming to retain their crown and make a statement to the rest of the continent. Other teams that could potentially make a strong impact in the tournament include Morocco, Ivory Coast, and Ghana. These nations have all enjoyed success in the Africa Cup of Nations in the past and have the talent and the depth to compete with the best teams in the competition. With star players like Hakim Ziyech, Wilfried Zaha, and Thomas Partey leading the way, these teams will be looking to cause some upsets and potentially go all the way to the final. Ultimately, predicting the winner of the Africa Cup of Nations - Egypt 2019 is a difficult task, as anything can happen in football. However, based on current form, talent, and past performances, Egypt, Senegal, Nigeria, and Cameroon seem to be the frontrunners for the title. It will be fascinating to see how the tournament unfolds and which team will come out on top in what promises to be a thrilling competition.
In conclusion, the Africa Cup of Nations - Egypt 2019 promises to be an exciting and highly competitive tournament with some of the best teams on the continent battling it out for the prestigious title. From the history and format of the tournament to the key players and participating teams, we have covered everything you need to know to follow the action and support your favorite team. So grab your jerseys, flags, and vuvuzelas, and get ready to witness some thrilling football in Egypt this summer!
Cameroon were the defending champions, but were eliminated in the round of 16 by Nigeria. The hosts Egypt were eliminated at the same stage after losing 0–1 to South Africa.
Algeria defeated Senegal 1–0 in the final, winning their second title and first since 1990, while Nigeria came third after beating Tunisia 1–0 in their third-place play-off match.