African Cup of Nations!

Well, despite the absence of recent powers Egypt, Nigeria, Cameroon, and South Africa this is still expected to be quite an exciting tournament! With the likes of the Ivory Coast and Ghana still in the running, as well as Tunisia and a tough Sudan side there are still some surprises on the horizon. Group A features the likes of underdog-with-a-chance Senegal, Zambia who should be good enough to at least qualify for the next round, and Libya and Equatorial Guinea who will be happy to salvage a point from this group. Meanwhile, Group B will probably be held by the Ivory Coast. As far as 2nd position goes, Sudan or Burkina Faso seem to have the greatest chance off qualifying for the next round. Sudan made it a fierce fight through a qualifying group that included the likes of Ghana while Burkina Faso's talented side might just be able to do some solid work and get themselves into the next round. Last but certainly not least we have Angola who are admittedly holding quite solid in their Cup appearances: this is their 4th consecutive! On to Group C now where things are probably the most even: Morocco and Tunisia are technically regarded favorites though they meet in their first match of the tournament while Gabon and Niger will look for any opening to make a name for themselves. Gabon might just be able to do so as hosts. Finally, in Group D Ghana will probably lead this tough group which includes the talented Guinea side which ousted Nigeria in the qualifying round. Mali may be an unknown side in the group, but I would keep my eye on Botswana who have a pretty good defense and a talented striker in Jerome Ramatlhakwane. Enjoy!