AFCON 2023: Summary of opening matches, statistics, upsets and surprises
By Biwah Bryan
From heart-pumping action to jaw-dropping surprises, the opening matches of AFCON2023 wrapped up with 12 epic clashes contested by 24 teams, all in 7 days with twists, turns, and upsets that left many in awe.
The opening matches of the tournament have been filled with exciting upsets, as highly-regarded teams such as Ghana, Tunisia, and Cameroon struggled in futility, to secure victories against their underdog opponents.
Seven-time champions Egypt narrowly avoided defeat against Mozambique thanks to a penalty goal from Mohammed Salah, South Africa fell to Mali in a surprise defeat, Ghana lost to Capo Verde, Algeria booked a draw with Angola, and Tunisia lost to Namibia.
Out of the 12 games played, only seven teams managed to secure maximum points, including Morocco, Namibia, Mali, Burkina Faso, Sénégal, Capo Verde, and Ivory Coast.
An average of 2.25 goals per match were scored across the 12 games with Senegal’s Lamine Camara currently leading the top scorer charts with two goals.
Meanwhile, six teams – including Côte d’Ivoire, Sénégal, Burkina Faso, Namibia, Mali, and Morocco – have been able to keep clean sheets, demonstrating their strong defensive prowess.
The second matches of the 2023 AFCON will begin on Thursday, January 18 with Nigeria against Ivory Coast, Ghana will face Egypt and Guinea Bissau will go up against Equatorial Guinea.
