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The Africa Cup of Nations 2019 Edition commenced yesterday in Egypt, and is scheduled to hold from 21^st June - July 19^th

You can follow the matches schedule: https://www.supersport.com/football/africa-cup-of-nations/fixtures

I don't think there is much hype about the tournament on the forum or across other continents, but since there are numerous african players plying their trade across Europe, most especially with a number of African biggest stars playing in the English Premier League, I think the Thread could be worth a shot.

Good thing that sports has been introduce so that people will divert problems into the african countries by attracting sports through sports. As we all know that football is one famous and good team sport game. No wonder that many fans all over the world are coming to see the team plays in the field.

Besides, african people are strong especiallynin heat where they are used to have this kind of climate in their countries.

The last time I followed this tournament was when Didier Drogba and Samuel Eto'o were at the top of their game.

With this year's impressive performance of Salah, many are expecting him to deliver again for his country. Egypt should do well here.

There's not much TV coverage from major sports channel I think.

Good thing it’s in the summer now instead of interrupting the domestic season. Teams used to lose important players for a month. It will be very, very hot to play this tournament though.

Nigeria vs Burundi at 7 pm GMT today. I will like to hear from you about what you think will happen. I place a bet that Nigeria is going to win Burundi 2.1. It's going to take place at the Alexandria stadium in case you desire to watch the match live.

Copa America, Euro U21, Women's world cup, and now the Africa Cup...Summer is stacked with football.

I literally had to Google what Burundi was LOL I'd say Nigeria to win, with the likes of Iwobi, Mikel, and Chukwueze on the team, is 100% the safest bet.

I feel like the "real" Africa Cup starts in the KO stages after all the low-tier are out of the competition so I'm not gonna pay too much attention to it until then.

I hope you watch the match at the end of the day and Mikel was really not done well in the match. However, Nigeria win 1:0 at the end of the day and that is a good way to start. Hope the team performs very well in the subsequent game.

Egypt are favourites to win the African Natuons.

Here’s some outright bookies odds -

https://www.oddschecker.com/football/africa-cup-of-nations/african-nations-cup/winner

Current champion was Cameroon i think this country could be counted as the favourite too and obviously as the most champion in the history with 7 trophy and as host country Egypt can be included of it but unfortunately i'm not so familiar with the name of most players at there unless Mo Salah as Liverpool player

Egypt is always the favourite in this competition as long as you have a player of the calibre of Salah.Many other teams are strong here as the African Cup of Nations is well known for beyond aggressive football.

Teams like Ivory Coast,Senegal,South Africa and Cameroon are strong candidates to win thid but I believe Egypt will be the strongest team here.

Of course, these teams are among the strongest. But you cannot underestimate Nigeria and Mali too, 80% of Nigerian players are playing in europe, although there as always being managerial problems or problem with Nigerian FA just the similar to what we are observing with the Argentina national team.

Your Favorite Team is indeed very good for this initial match. They won 2-0 over Guinea-Bissau. Of course this is a good start for Cameroon by securing full points in the match for the inaugural Africa cup. Hopefully in the future the positive trend will continue with Cameroon.

Yeah, it's good that they moved tournament to summer. But now there is another problem - now it's summer and it's crazy hot in Africa, so it's difficult conditions to play.
Yeah, we have lot of action now. I thought that summer without World Cup or EURO will be boring. So far I didn't had time to watch cup of nations, probably I will start watching from crucial group games and knockout stages.

^

I haven't had time to be fully involved with the tournament progress to, but I've been watching a few selected match and it's been quite impressive.

I'll be seeing Nigeria vs Guinea scheduled for later today 15:30 GMT (+1)

Nigeria have quite a value of 1.99 odds according to the bookies, I'll be placing my bet on Nigeria, as they seem the better side.

That is a nice bet and I think Nigeria will comfortably win if Mikel will be bench. He really does not perform well in the last March with Burundi. I will place my bet very soon. I was happy yesterday that Ghana did win because I could have lost out. May the gods of soccer be with us.

I can see that you don't truly have time to for the tournament because the match you quoted above is not correct is not Nigeria vs  Benin but is Nigeria vs Guinea and the match between Benin and Ghana yesterday ended 2-2 draw. Am sure Nigeria will win the match by 2-0.

Thanks mate,
That was a typo error, I actually watched Ghana vs Benin match yesterday.

https://i.imgur.com/aeLciAT.png

My bet on Nigeria won, It was quite a late goal and a hard fought win but, It doesn't matter.

Nigeria as expected currently sit 6 points at the top of group B

Sad to see so little interest in this Cup. Probably because Africans are not here on this forum in high numbers yet.
Anyways, I am actually following this cup, placed a few bets. I already know that Algeria, Madagascar, and Nigeria are in the Round of 16, I wonder who's gonna come next.
Uganda is playing Egypt right now as I write this. Not turning out to my expectations yet.

Ofcourse there is no imposible, Cameroon is a good team, I will also support them same to you.

Egypt is so far one of the best teams here in this competition as I think that they have not conceded any goal yet showing solid gameplay from their side.I think they are the main favourites to win this Cup of Nations this year as I have also seen the other teams and they are not at the same level compared to Egypt.

Late to the party of discussions, I think not so much that no interest but just lack of coverage (Same as Copa). I'm following for sure as we've got plenty of Liverpool players in Guinea, Cameroon, Senegal, Egypt (am I missing anyone?), but this tourney's been really good to me in terms of betting... that is, in the previous qualifiers. The past weeks haven't been good though, but only because I've been let down in parlays.

Senegal's a little disappointing so far, and Nigeria's loss yesterday another marker of their waning influence.

Dark horses for the tourney anyone?

Just because Egypt haven't conceded any goal doesn't make them a solid team competition was held in Egypt own soil which I believe also keep them the upper hand above other nationals. Besides, the team in their group are teams which barely have a solid team and if Egypt don't come on top that make a lame team.

There’s a couple of good teams in this tournament by my god, there are some really crap teams too. Is it just me or are most of the goalkeepers terrible? I’ve seen some really bad goalkeeping so far.

Now I'm watching Kenya - Senegal game and no surprise that Senegal dominating, but score is still 0:0 at 56 minute. Mane had missed penalty in the first half. But as I understand this score is enough for Senegal to reach next round because Flashscore shows them in 2nd place.

I'm not African football expert, but it's surprising to see Madagascar in the 1st place in their group. I don't know any of their players, but fact thst they won against Nigeria looks impressive. I only don't know who will they face in the next round

@LFC It's not just you. It's almost embarrassing until you take into account some of these teams are really struggling with their football. Funding and facilities... and then also just a lack of proper time together as a squad. So no surprise they're like deer in headlights, with all due respect. It's also not too bad once you've watched women's football, also with all due respect, but you get to understand the difference when you have funding and proper coaching.

@LTU Madagascar also a debutant in AFCON and yeah, I lost money on Nigeria... these East African minnows are quite a blast as it turns out. Burundi's first AFCON too, and I thought they were worthy, taking a point of Gabon but then losing quite badly to Guinea...

@buwaytress - I have watched some of the women’s football & that really does suck :D
Obviously they’re not going to be as good as the men but I just can’t watch it.

Mane was able to make amends of mistake as he found the twice, one from the penalty spot.

Senegal finished the game with a 3 nil victory and ended as the group's runner up behind Algeria who won all their 3 group matches.

@DeathAngel. I hate to say it but yeah, I've really tried to watch women's football but the gap in quality is just too hard not to ignore. It has vastly improved I think, but still, to watch the WWC finals and see some of the goalkeeping and defending mistakes is just too awkward. The attack isn't so bad, technically they're quite good now but the instinct, the defence... anyway.

5/1 for Argentina anyone? I thought it was worth a tenner (https://fairlay.com/market/brazil-vs-argentina-1/?referral=2130e697-c138-436a-a753-de8ca2436301).

The round 16 fixtures have been released already, and are as follow;

Uganda vs Senegal

Morocco vs Benin

Madagascar vs D.R. Congo

Ghana vs Tunisia

Mali vs Ivory Coast

Algeria vs Guinea

Nigeria vs Cameroon

Egypt vs South Africa

The rest of the fixtures will be updated as soon as the last group stage matches are concluded today...

Thanks for the update Harko, I got Mali right last night but stupidly parlayed it with an England upset.

I like Senegal a lot, always have since their performance in World Cup 2002, but I wonder if Uganda is capable of an upset here. They trumped DR Congo with 2 headers in an earlier game -- Congolese team even apologised for that loss. Speaking of, if Madagascar get their upset over Congo, there will be riots!

Very true and it's sad really at this stage of football, African football doesn't seem to have developed much, even though there are top quality African players leading their respective European clubs.

I've followed the tournament thus far and I've been far from impressed with what I've seen, I do hope the knock out stages offers much more for we viewers.
This one is definitely gonna be a cracker, I'm hoping Nigeria comes out on top though.

Actually, I'm surprised about level of women football. I watched it something like 10 years ago and it was terrible. Now we see good indivdual skills of players, big speeds and etc. Probably they are playing better than professional men in my country. But yeah, silly mistakes ruins everything often. Like yesterday game where penalty of England player was so bad that goalkeeper even catched the ball.

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Almost in all 1/8 final matches there is obvious favorites in the paper. Nigeria vs Cameroon looks most interesting. Maybe Cameroon isn't that good as they were when they had Eto'o, but they have some interesting players to watch like Ajax goalkeeper Onana.

There has been quite a number of positives to take home from the tournament so far, importantly is the new season which allows players plying their trade outside the continent to not have to leave an active club session to represent their nation.
Also there are still as many (or maybe more) stars to look out for, and we have not been disappointed so far.
The AFCON and COMEBOL also present a variety of options for gamblers with a plethora a fixtures occurring almost daily.

I think this is mostly due to extreme corruption at every level of the game, most of these countries football association, as well as CAF aren't entirely concerned with the development of african football, rather they are concerned with make millions of dollars from the respective offices they hold.


Cameroon vs Nigeria is always like a derby due both countries being very close and sharing borders, I'll be backing Nigeria to win too and I hope they'll improve from their unimpressive performance so far in the tournament.

Not going to comment on the corruption angle, we all know Africa is riddled with corruption, crime, wars, and terrorism.
Let's keep the discussion limited to the game.

I do not think Nigeria will win. The next match is on 6th if I remember correctly according to google. The sad reality is, Nigeria is full of individualistic players who lack to perform together as a team. Everyone wants the ball and show off what they can do.

And these games are scouted by England's clubs. They watch the players' performance rather than paying attention to what their team skills are. Money speaks I guess.

Sorry I'm late to the discussion haven't visited the board for sometime now, The Nigeria National team disappointed us by loosing that last group stage match therefore paying Cameron is a perfect punishment. Don't that we're scared of them but they're a very strong side that shouldn't be taken for granted also if we do beat them (fingers cross) we have Egypt next which is another favorite for winning the cup but still hoping the men can replicate the success of our women team. Picking Nigeria to win the trophy but if Egypt beats us I'll immediately shift my support to them to win it all. Mo salah needs more trophy so he can make us proud internationally.

They lack team spirit just as you've said and I think it's going to be a big disadvantage for them against Cameroon with little stars in their team, but with more team effort.
I cannot see hunger or desire from the super eagles players, only a desire to shine out individually a d no team wins a tournament that way.
Rohr has to do something to bring the best out of his boys against Cameroon, or else he as well as them is going home.
Contrary to what many Africans are suggesting, even if Mohammed salah wins the AFCON, he wouldn't still win the ballon d'or award.

In the past, when I hear that Nigeria will be having a match with my country, I use to lose appetite because of the fear that usually engulf me, I mean the fear of them beating my team mercilessly, that was during the time of these great players like Okocha and this tall handsome man called Kanu, but I think Nigeria has rely lost the football glory now, as they are no longer threat to other football team that use to see them as the best in Africa before.

I would not be surprised if they lose this game, which is if they have not lost it already because I am really not following this match that much. I have some friends in Nigeria, and I will really be laughing at them when their team goes off the game, maybe I should even go into betting with some of them.

Friday (05/07/19):
1. Morocco vs Benin

Saturday (06/07/19):
1. Uganda vs Senegal
2. Nigeria vs Cameroon

Sunday (07/07/19)
1. Egypt vs South Africa
2. Madagascar vs Democratic Republic of the Congo

Monday (07/08/19)
1. Algeria vs Guinea
2. Mali vs Ivory Coast

Tuesday (09/07/19)
1. Ghana vs Tunisia

This is a schedule of several matches that entered the last 16, I am still waiting for my favorite team to compete (Egypt) on July 7 tomorrow. I am sure Egypt will win the 2019 African Cup this time, they are a strong team in my opinion. well, who are your favorite teams?

Although Nigeria have some good guys who can be depended upon but let's see the games at round 16 before my final prediction of who will take home the cup for the year 2019. For now am standing with Nigeria because their opponent are not doing quite well as expected of them as a team.

Nigeria and cameroon will be clashing on Sunday the seventh of July 2019. I hope the Nigerian guys play well and beat the canerooners. The challenge Nigeria footballers always have is becoming weak once they are scored  first. If Cameroon can score first then they are going to have the day.

In any case, this African Cup of Nations will indeed be the most significant in history, I think, because it was 2019 that presented the opportunity to play 24 teams, they are 16 as before.  But today we have to watch those who go to the playoffs.  The end of the already close.but, as always, I am surprised by the players of one team, Salah and Man.

Like you said, the Senegalese performed beautifully in the world cup you mentioned and they also proof their worth in this tournament so far. However, with my research I find out that they are rank the first team in Africa while Uganda is not among the top 10. I believe the match is a win for Senegalese.


You definitely can't compare female and male football cause the emotions and the power involved is different but the Cameroon is always strong side as you said but they lack some football tactics which I think will favour Nigeria in winning the match on Saturday.

Morocco plays Benin tomorrow in Cairo
Uganda plays Senegal tomorrow in Cairo also.
Shouldnt Morocco and Senegal have decently even matches being such large favorites  (1.243 and 1.23 to advance)
I will be on SOUTH AFRICA to defeat home country EGYPT on the weekend at good odds

It might not get him the gold but a step closer, I think it's quite time an African gets his hands on that gold. Maybe just maybe if he wins the AFCON, capture the premier league title and retain the champions league trophy then he has a shot. Liverpool is a very strong team and if they take advantage of their chances next season winning the league won't be a problem. Salah has shown signs of consistency and if he continues in that form it might get him the gold. After Nigeria my next favorite country to win the AFCON is Egypt just because of Salah.


We can, there's no difference it's still football they're all playing, females play females, males play males. If the females with less support, sponsors and appreciation can win the trophy the male team don't have an exuse.

I thought as much but have come to reason with the Egypt the host nation to have the favor. Their opposition have a good team work as we have seen them play. I will stand with the host nation because of their performance on thus tournament. This tournament have surprising and will still do as we progress.

Permit me to make a quick forecast as things will stand by Sunday atleast.

1. Morroco are favorites to win. I'll go for a goal or two.  :P
2. I can't place my fingers but my little octopus says I should give it to the Senegalese to progress.
3. Nigeria and Cameroon is a bit dicey because both have come a long way and the rivalry has always been there even though not as strong as in the days of Patrick mboma, okocha and Co. My little octopus says Nigeria
4. Egypt will shine
5. Madagascar & DRC this should be an open match according to my octupus.
The octupus has spoken. By Monday we should be seeing the outcome.  ;D

Well Benin with the big upset over Morocco in penalties to advance and Senegal with the 1-0 win over Uganda.
Tonight I will be taking SOUTH Aftrica to defeat host nation Egypt and Cameroon to advance against Nigeria
If one of these 2 teams wins tonight then I come ahead but the major upset I hope for is Egypt  ;D

Whoever bet on Benin to qualify will be in the clouds. Morocco somehow managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory, getting a last minute penalty, missing it... then going on to miss two penalties in the shootout. I thought Copa was the tourney where people played for shootouts but now we're seeing it in AFCON as well. Can you blame the weaker teams? Reminds me of Greece in a EURO 15 years ago haha.

Speaking of missed penalties, Sadio Mane's missed two in two now. Good, so he makes up for it when he returns to Liverpool haha.

@mich I like Egypt's chances but South Africa has a huge physical advantage in my mind. If Salah doesn't find his form soon his team could be in trouble so yeah, I'm also leaning (against my heart) for an upset today. Over 7/1 is hard to ignore, really.

Nigeria Cameroon is going to be tight but if there's an early goal and panic, then either team could win big. The eagles are really losing their status as a powerhouse and Cameroon are on the rise, so I'm tempted to parlay a Cameroon-Egypt with a hedged South Africa single.

Benin winning was indeed a big upset, Morocco had the biggest chance of winning very late into the game after they were awarded a penalty, but that is gone already, I doubt their fairytale will continue though as they'll be facing Senegal in the quarter finals.

Today's Match are not really easy to predict, Nigeria vs Cameroon especially, I expect a very close affair with Nigeria having the edge over Cameroon, Egypt are heavy favorites on the paper, however, I also support that 7.3 odds for South Africa to win is worth a big shot.

Wow what a match, congratulations to us for winning this tough one. Nigeria won 3-2 Cameron. Ighalo (of Nigeria) opening the scoring at the 19 minutes then Boheken (of Cameron) equalize at the 41st minutes followed by another goal by Jie (of Cameron) at the 44th minutes. At this point I thought we were out but ighalo and iwobi (of Nigeria) had other plans they both scored under 3mins (ighalo 63rd & iwobi 66th minutes) to win us the match. Now we wait for the other game coming later in the evening between Egypt vs South Africa. I'm routing for Egypt at the same time hoping they lose as playing S.A  is more preferable then Egypt lol

The team had to dig deep after going behind from their 1 - 0 lead, Ighalo was stunning today and could have easilyvscored at an hattrick, as well as they the team there were a number opportunities to increase the lead, but the ball just wouldn't go in.

I woud rather we face Egypt for the Quarter finals because, It seems the team gets prepared better when they are meant to play against a tougher side.

Quite true although still prefer South Africa and my wish just came true. South Africa won 1-0 Egypt. Egypt the host nation of this year's AFCON are out. The goal for South Africa came at the 85th minute scored by Lorch who also won the total man of the match award although I think TAU deserve that award, he was just phenomenon created chances after chances.

There you have it mate! Egypt are out indeed, and that does increases the chances of Nigeria lifting the trophy, even if it is just quite slightly.

History is quite on Nigeria's side going head to head vs South Africa, I just hope the Super Eagles doesn't way ahead of themselves or start ranting about match bonuses prior to game.

@mich looks like we booked our bets (https://www.bitcoinrush.io/sportsbook/ShareBet?id=B1Y8oUgnt%2BcZGA4VazHpfSVVGDm441saJJq1%2FzS9kbI%3D) for the upset of the tournament so far! This doesn't actually even out all the losses I've had in Copa but it does make for good celebration anyway.

I was wrong about the Super Eagles... Cameroon almost had their upset but they couldn't hold on. I'd still like Senegal to win this.

Madagascar to get another upset today? Congo will not want another defeat to yet another East African though!

The Nigerian camo should not get too excited about having to play South Africa rather than Egypt. They should keep their feet firmly on the ground. The Madagascar upset is still fresh in the memory, and underrating SA would be a very costly mistake.

Organizers of the AFCON tournament would not be too happy about losing the host. But it is the drama and uncertainty that makes the game beautiful.

It's big surprise for me that Egypt lost to South Africa. Well, it wasn't best tournament for Salah with just 2 goals scored. Maybe it's not surprising, he had very long and difficult season and no time to recover after it.
@buwaytress, talking about Congo and Madagascar game bookmakers aren't giving huge advantage to Congo, odds for their win is 2.10. So, it should be interesting game and we might expect surprise form Madagascar.
What is really sad for me seeing half empty stadiums in this tournament. Maybe it might be expensive for people from other countries to travel to Egypt, but it also looks that locals are also not very interested in AFCON.

Nigeria losing to a lowly rated Madagascar cannot be a yardstick for saying that they may not be able to beat SA, Nigeria defeated them in the qualifying stage I believed Nigeria overconfidence and underrating Madagascar was responsible their loss, obviously they upped their game against Cameroon and convincingly won that game as the tournament proceed I believed they will improve more it would have been very difficult if they are to play Egypt as the host country.
A minnow beninoise defeating morocco is a major upset the bookmaker wouldn't have given them a chance but the God of soccer is on their side thus proving some soccer pundit wrong.

The Algeria vs Guinea game was an interesting one, Algeria won with 3 goals to zero although Guinea had majority share of the balls possession with 58% and 13 short but sadly only one of those short was on target. It was a fine display from Mahrez with perfect ball control and finish like no other resulting to him netting at the 57th minutes and awarded the man of the match. Before his goal was a first half goal from his teammate Balaïli at the 24th minutes and the last goal of the match came from Ounas at the 82nd minutes advancing Algeria to the quarter finals.

Egypt was starting the tournament with 3 win on group phase but unfortunately they were lost in the knockout phase however i had read some of article regarding Egypt team and they says Egypt fail was benefit for Liverpool because Mo Salah can immediatelly went to Liverpool earlier because Egypt was eliminated

Egypt is out and it looks like a surprise to me because they ended the group stage without goals conceded.South Africa played really well and Nigeria should not be that happy that are playing against South Africa as they are quite a good team.Tonight games are good with the Ivory Coast thst should be beautiful to watch on TV.

Nigeria is my favorite to win the African cup,but this tournament can't be predicted and I'm ready for some surprises.It was weird that Egypt was eliminated.They are very dependent of their big star Mo Salah  and this made them easy to get neutralized by the opponent's defense.

I always am wary of teams who get a perfect group stage in any tournament, club or international. Of course if they do it with a gulf of talent in between them and their opponents, it's a different thing, but sometimes you need to get a losing streak out of your system, or peak late. Morocco and Egypt got a perfect start and then stumbled and are out.

Look at South Africa and Benin, both qualified as a best 3rd-placed team from group stage, got their defeats out of the way and yet managed to knock out tourney favourites Morocco and Egypt. Nice huh?

Seriously, this is a wonderful string of results for the neutrals, even Madagascar is having a fairytale debut. No one will begrudge either team for progressing on penalties either, since they both did well in normal time!

I'm still backing Senegal to win this outright, but let's hope a few more upsets happen in QF because I'll be backing them!

As it stands right now in the tournament, I believe the cup is up for grabs with the exit of egypt, cameroun and Morocco former powerhouses of African football, though we still have nigeria and Algeria. Funny enough, teams like Madagascar previously unheard of are swelling in confidence and may create upsets. So be careful with your bets.

Anybody watching the Ghana vs Tunisia game? Tunisia just made the biggest mistake that might cost them the opportunity of advancing into the quarter finals. They (Tunisia) were winning the match 1-0 after scoring at the 73rd minute but a late own goal at the 91st minutes just gave Ghana another chance which has taken the match to extra time. Who do you think will win this one? Match still ongoing... I still believe Ghana will.

I'm watching the match, it was fairly an even game and Tunisia's substitution is what is probably about to cost them their place in the Quarter finals, Ghana seem to be the better side since the beginning of the extra time but If Tunisia can hold on until the penalty shootout, then maybe they could get lucky.

It was great match. I wouldn't blame Bedoui for an own goal, it was difficult situation for him. I was amazed how confident players of both teams were on penalty shootout, in most moments goalkeepers didn't had any chances to save, we saw only one penalty missed by Ghana player what cost them place in quarterfinals.
So now we know pairs of quarterfinals - Senegal vs Benin, Madagascar vs Tunisia, Ivory Coast vs Algeria and Nigeria vs South Africa.

It’s really much of a very big surprise to everyone who had faith in them and no one would have expected they leave the game so soon and even this way, I was actually thinking the cup would be for them this time but as it looks now, it’s definitely going to Nigeria, no doubt about that.

Nigeria has better chances, especially after the shock from Egypt and with the comeback they played with Cameroon, it obvious the cup is definitely going to Nigeria this time.  I have always been supporting Egypt for this cup but now my support goes  to Nigeria  but I can’t guarantee because one can never tell what other left teams are capable of doing  but I wish whoever wins good luck.

Well, Tunisia killed my parlay anyway.

I did a long parlay with a friendly for Syria (who won), then Wilfried Zaha saved my ass to get his team a slim 1-0 win... then Ghana broke my heart. Equalised with the own goal... I really thought they would win too. They're ranked far lower than Tunisia but the bookies thought they would edge this out. And 18 shots? They ought to have been sharper at the final third.

Turns out we were going for another penalty... Tunisia got exactly what they wanted and they win the lottery.

Tunisia has not won a single game in the tourney and still they progress to QF! 4 draws and they're through.

Madagascar couldn't have had a better opponent.

I hate the fact that Tunisia won Ghana although congrats to them afterall it's football but still hoping Madagascar surprises the tournament again and beats Tunisia. They don't deserve to advance just as you have said, they haven't won a single game just lucky fellas. Nigeria on the other hand shouldn't disappoint us as they did with their last group stage bmatch, South Africa defends was very solid against Egypt but history been on our side I'm positive we'll win against them.

Did not notice this topic while I watched many games..

Three draws and ranked 2. Another draw and passed by penalties. Tunisia just gave a heart attack to everyone watching it and made most people loosing money..
While Egypt and Morocco were way better than Tunisia, only the last one made it!

I see Nigeria knocking out South Africa tomorrow, the South African team has not actually sparked in this year's African nations cup and had to qualify as best losers in there group and although they IMO deserve their win against Egypt which they played well in the first half but went low in the second half. But the Nigerian team has picked up after an embarrassing defeat against Madagascar made things up with a hard fought victory again defending champions Cameroon. While Senegal should not take things lightly because the Benin Republic team can strike them is they relent but I think Senegal would move passed them to the next round.
What are your predictions

Here goes my predictions, Senegal will send benin republic back home, the Nigerian game with South Africa will be a bit dicey but Nigeria to win with 1 or 2 goals and the last two games between ivory coast & Algeria / Madagascar & Tunisia, the will be an upset in one(so if you're placing a bet, I suggest you be careful). So let's Sit back and see how things unfold.

 A lot of people are hyping this Salah guy, and a lot of people are saying that Egypt might carry the cup, but I don't really think so. I'm not sure about this, but there are other strong countries in the African continents as well that I believe are going to do well because I have been following up with their football recently. Countries like Nigeria and Senegal. Senegal has this guy called Sadio Mane and he's really good, and that gives them a good chance at winning . Then there is Nigeria, which has been doing well, they won Cameroon with three goals. I'd put my bet on Senegal and Nigeria.

You're late to the party, get updated. Egypt is already out sadly, no trophy for salah also Nigeria won Cameron 3 goals to 2. That means we only won by just one goal scored by iwobi. Speaking of your bet, are you forgetting Algeria? I doubt any team depending on a star player will make it into the finals as Africa games are mostly physical games meaning once they isolate the star player, the team losses (that's what South Africa did to Egypt). This competition needs a collective team effort that doesn't depend on one player that's why my bet is on Nigeria.

The ball is round and upsets will happen in any game or tournament.

Let's see the teams who made it to the quarterfinals:

1. Senegal v Benin - 10 July, Cairo
2. Nigeria v South Africa - 10 July, Cairo
3. Madagascar v Tunisia - 11 July, Cairo
4. Ivory Coast v Algeria - 11 July, Suez
source (https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/48914540)

Who will make it to the semi-finals?

My picks:
Senegal
South Africa
Madagascar
Ivory Coast

Obviously one of those posters just posting for the sake of it. Bitcoin discussion threads with people who probably never use Bitcoin. Gambling discussion threads with people who probably don't place any bets. And right at the bottom of the pile people who don't even follow the games and come in with worthless comments.

I was wrong about the Super Eagles though, but I hope I'm right about South Africa tonight for the second time in a row. They overcame Egypt, arguably a tougher opponent, and they did beat Nigeria already last month! Either way, good luck to you guys, you're absolutely right about AFCON being about physicality, which is something I do enjoy. Here's my $6 bet (https://fairlay.com/market/nigeria-vs-south-africa-1/) on S Africa though at just over 4/1.

Wow, the Lord of football (lol) has done it for us once again. South Africa outplayed us although we (Nigeria) had more shots & on target shots than they did (South Africa team). Nigeria came into the game with a defensive mindset and it almost backfired after South Africa equalize at the 71st minutes with the help from VAR although after successive corners for the Nigeria team, they got gifted a goal due to defensive mistakes from the SA defenders and our defensive player (Ekong) kneed the ball into the net at the 89th minute.  Congratulations to us we advance to the semi-finals with a 2-1 win over South Africa, this was a close one.

Among the first two picks, one has got success and the other has lost. I'm not sure on what basis you picked South Africa win against Nigeria. Even in the thread it is clear to see most of the winning prediction was for Nigeria for various reasons. Let's wait for the results of the upcoming matches scheduled for tomorrow.

I was impressed with South Africa's performance with Egypt and I though they could perform well again against Nigeria.
What's being discussed in this thread as "clear" winners does not necessarily translate to actual results. The Nigerian team only won in the last minute and that does not suggest "clear".   

I was surprised Nigeria won their yesterday match against their rivals with 2-1, I begin to change my thought about the super eagles of Nigeria after their outstanding performance in USA 94 but I don't want to join into conclusion until I see how the team perform in world football tournament.


You're right, if their female team could win the trophy the male definitely don't have an excuse but there are still some kind of different in female and male football and i don't know what that is if it was the support or sponsorship level but ever I watch female game I believed something is still missing.

Now the anther record of winning has been added, they won south Africa and I think after seeing they play that way yesterday, My full bet will go for Nigeria, I think they have really prepared for this cup and they have been delivering on their promises, before the match of yesterday that saw Nigeria beat South Africa with 2-1, mikel obi had sworn that they will, definitely win south Africa, and not only south Africa, they might probably win the cup, look at how they really gave south Africa a though time, and I think that mikel obi will really perform with all his strength and international skills  in this match being his final one, and I believe that other team members are in for it too, I am more particular about Mikel because he is my man in that team, so don’t mind my selfish interest.

I believe it’s a very good opportunity for Nigeria as it is now, Egypt has been their threat and now that they are out of the game I think I can now confidently place my bet without fear for Nigeria without fear although it’s still quite risky because no one expected Egypt to be knocked out the way they did, that means anything can still happen but for now, I would stick with Nigeria.

If the game does not work in favor of Nigeria, then it’s definitely Algeria, Madagascar has no chance of winning at all, I believe that definitely the Cup is for Nigeria this year but let’s just keep our fingers crossed and see how it plays meanwhile  any bet placed now is at the players risk.

Senegal are my favourites to win the trophy. My guy Mane is slaying teams :) I think Senegal are the best team remaining although Nigeria have lots of good players too.

Possibly you have made a good prediction if you wish Senegal to win the trophy but in another you recognize another team with good players, and I think they are in a better position to take home the trophy, as we had seem them not performed to expectations in some last Africa Cup of Nations.

The AFCON is one of the most unpredictable international tournaments, I never bet on it. Senegal & Nigeria are good teams but do not rule out the others.

Well done to you! I really wasn't expecting them to park against S Africa too and I'm glad you also thought they were lucky. But still, a deserved victory for not slacking at the end, you should book tickets to the final ;)

Now can Madagascar do it? It's crazy to think an island team is in the QF against mainlanders, I wasn't serious when I said fairy tale for them but the verve they've been showing, plenty of good goals and spirit from the East Africans.

But I'm with LFC, Senegal still the pick of the tourney, playing without fear. Mane scoring and assisting left and right. He missed 2 penalties and gave away the responsibility but he's still in contention for MVP (is there even one at AFCON?) IMO.

Be great too if they won it, be their first time!

Possibly if I want to choose from the remaining team a winner of this Africa Cup Nations, i will choose Nigeria because of their consistency they have exhibited since the start of the Competition, although we can't predict perfectly because there may be a surprise from other team in the competition, so, let watch as the game gos.

We have two 1/4 finals tonight -

Ivory Coast vs Algeria & Madagascar vs Tunisia

I’m not going to bet on either but if I was pushed to call the semi finalists here I’d say Ivory Coast & Tunisia.

I will never bet on something having tunisia on it, ever!
For the other game, Algeria is a good team and not as easy as it looks like. Ivory Coast has a hard game!

I could see the perspective you are coming from but, football is a different ball game outside what they play on the pitch during the stage group. Cops America has taught me a serious lesson, so, let's never concludes on ruling out Tunisia from the win tonight, they can shock everyone.

More times than not, decision making has decided matches in the tournament, so far. Taking precedence over talent. One silly mistake is all it takes for a match to be won or lost.
Nigeria has been growing into the competition as the matches unfolded, same with Senegal and Algeria, I predict two of the three to get into the finals.

I would definitely bet on Tunisia even if the odds are in Madagascar's favour.

Your finalists for the semi's is not correct for the Ivory Coast player mess up during their penalty shoot out and for the Tunisia game I won't underrate the Madagascar team due to the way the beat the Nigerian team during the round up 16. However, the north Africa countries dont perform well in this year tournament.

With the likes of Egypt who I had my money on out off this competition, it's now anybody's game but like your pick Senegal isn't a bad team and am now thinking this should have been the team I must have backed.

But football being played on the pitch and not speculation expect anything....

Algeria kicked Ivory Coast in an interesting game with penalty kicks. It would be easier if they didn't miss their mid-game penalty..
Tunisia 2-0 for the moment.
I am impressed with those teams, even Madagascar made good games overall!

That could be a good choice and a bad one because, based on their games played during the group stages Madagascar's team did well and they where able to beat Nigerians team down, for me in will vouch for Madagascar's.

The match just ended and Tunisia won 3-0

They did not stand a chance despite being very good in the group stages and being the tournament's surprise package.
Experience kicks in at some stage in the Tornament and their inexperience was their worst enemy.

If you see Tunisia in the preliminary round there is certainly no one who is interesting and never wins and never loses. Most Tunisians face a draw and win a penalty with Ghana. That means Tunisia is a team that has very high luck in this competition and in the future they will face Senegal in the semifinals.

The semi-finals will be an interesting match, in the first semi-final, we will see Liverpool stars namely Sadio Mane for Senegal, and Ferjani Sassi for Tunissia. while in the semifinals there are Alex iwobi, ahmed mussa, obi mikel from Nigeria while Algeria has Slimani and Andy Delort. but from the overall strength of the team, I prefer Nigeria to advance to the finals and win the African Cup this year.

I am interested in the semifinals between Senegal vs Tunisia. Maybe Senegal will be the favorite to win this match. But Tunisia is a great team, they can advance to the semifinals and it proves that tunisia cannot be underestimated.

Despite the game went in favor of the Tunisia, I never think this way based on my evaluation on the two team, I actually give the game to the Madagascar but as you have rightly said, they where inexperience and that's what I believe. Let see the next surprise the Africa Cup of Nation hold for the next round.

Don't think we'll see mikel obi in action. His services isn't that needed in the team as he didn't play any of the qualifiers and we still didn't miss his presence also don't get why he was called into the team and deprived other a chance to display themselves in Egypt. Maybe he was just called due to the respect the coach has for him and just maybe so he'll be awarded a medal before he retires believing this could be the last time he plays for Nigeria national team.

About the semifinals against Algeria, I'm having some doubt if we can make it through this time, just take a good look at the Algeria team, they haven't lost a single match in the tournament and also have very passionate players. Nigeria will need another miracle to win that match against them. Hopefully we make it to the finals although both teams deserve it.

I doubt if Algeria will be able to win their semi finals against the Nigeria team, although merely looking at the whole team one could see some elements of winning among the player's, which if they keep it up, they will definitely win their opponent in the semifinals. Algeria's are good team but if Nigeria team will take their errors and utilize it well, they will definitely win them and take home the Cup.

I support your presumption due to level of situation of controller usually put together by the Nigerian player.
@CryptopreneurBrainboss, Mikel Obi was included in the squad to be a senior man which could some how boost the moral of the Nigerian players just Okocha did before his retirement unfortunately he proof the coach wrong for giving the chance.

I think a lot of neutral observers had sympathy for Madagascar.
They do not have a serious soccer league or players and in their first appearance they have come so far.
This was a football fairy for them and perhaps the beginning of a serious and strong national team.
Now, I feel that Senegal will win Africa cup.

Everyone underestimated Madagascar performance at the beginning and those teams paid it so bad. Madagascar has advanced more than expected even by the coach and players themselves.
In the last game they played defence way more than offence + they didn't expect Tunisia to play that way = bad loss.

I did back Tunisia (and you know they're like pretty high up in FIFA ranking so they were always going to beat Madagascar... but there were no sad faces for the islanders, getting this far was incredible.

Finally getting into gear, 4 draws and now this big 3-0 win, but they will be no more "easy" teams left. Algeria also expected to go through, but another dull penalty shootout.

Senegal have got to be the favourites to reach the final, and they're good enough to beat any of the 3 teams left. Neutrals should be hoping for them too. See you guys in 2 days time!

You must definitely would not want to underestimate Nigeria, I'll be backing who ever wins the Semi final match between Nigeria and Algeria to lift the trophy.

Nigeria seem to be getting the job done, and will be a tough nut for whichever team comes their way.

It is hard to predict which team will lift the trophy. The performance of national teams are fluctuating in every Cup but it is very "volatile" in Africa and South America Cups...
Senegal was defeated by Algeria, Nigeria was defeated by Madagascar which also was kicked by Tunisia and considering Algeria performance > Tunisia, then mathematically Algeria has the best odds... However, regarding the last games I would consider Senegal as the best team! the problem is that it will faces Tunisia which is unpredictable!

And judging by their last two games, I think they now are my odds on favorite to take the trophy home(Abuja), they've stepped up their game in the knock out stage and that's where it matters most.

Algeria will definitely be a hard nut to crack, but I kinda love how Rohr has set up his attacking team in the last games.
Looking out for that game, it's a must watch .

Without any doubt to me that my national team (Algeria) will win the African Cup this year. maybe our last game wasn't the best but as everyone saw the match yesterday against Ivory Coast, Algeria was so close to score many goals in both half-time many times but luck wasn't really with us but that's okay, and definitely  I will bet for our national team to win this cup

I wish you the very best of luck & I have no affiliation with any of the four semi finalists but my prediction is a final of Senegal vs Nigeria. Like I said I wish you luck though & anything can happen with football.

Algeria has just been the better side between the two, they haven't lost a single match and have been dominating each game since the tournament began meanwhile Nigeria has just been lucky most times. I fav them to win but hope I'm wrong and Nigeria do win. Sadly, we'll be wearing our away Jessy and from history nothing good ever comes from that jessy. Algeria and Nigeria will be facing each other for the 9th time with 3wins each and 2draws between them so this is definitely a 50/50 game.

Also on a sad note business moguls has started promising the super eagles huge sum of dollars (like $50000+) for each goal scored. Last time (during the world cup) such promises came out we lost to Argentina as players because selfish with the ball hopefully it doesn't repeat itself.

Oh, for sure, I never would, as I said, there are no more "weak" teams left in this tournament, all I said was I'm confident of Senegal able to beat any of the remaining teams left. Whether or not that'll happen will be down to which team can maintain enough energy because it has been one hell of a sapping tourney.

My only worry for Senegal is that they haven't stuttered, not really. Every other team kind of has. Still wish there were an outright selection for AFCON. Anyone got any lines?

Nigeria have faced Algeria 15 times, not eight.. Nigeria Won on 7 occasions lost on 5 and there were 3 draws, also the last time Nigeria lost to Algeria was a far back as 1990.

However, a lot has changed from both teams football and from either side there is no player within that squad that still plays for either side, but Nigeria winning 5 and drew 1 from the last 6 games is also an impressive stat.

Nope, you're also wrong, as their competitive head to head matches is 19 and not 15 times. Nigeria have won 9 and not 7 although I miscalculated the statistics, I wasn't concentrating on all their head to head matches but just the African cup of nations which they will be facing themselves for the 9th time as I earlier said., 4 wins for Nigeria, 3 wins for Algeria and 1 draw.

The last time this two face each other was in Nov 2017 and Nigeria lost to Algeria but that wasn't for the African cup of nation tournament.

https://i.imgur.com/ucYDb4G.jpg
Source (https://www.11v11.com/teams/nigeria/tab/opposingTeams/opposition/Algeria/)

I guess it is a wrong information from your source, Here is the fixutre from other multiple sources

https://i.imgur.com/YBDiJ88.png
^{Source (https://www.futbol24.com/teamCompare/CAF/Algeria/vs/CAF/Nigeria/)}


https://i.imgur.com/foLPrlJ.png
^{Source (https://www.flashscore.com.ng/match/f7DTMs7l/#h2h;overall)}



https://i.imgur.com/dKmL1Nv.png

We are almost there before the semifinals start and, and am Happy to see my favourite team on the semifinals hope they will go forth and show to the world how.much they have been doing this in Africa. Am seeing the finals to be between the Tunisia and Nigeria, hope at the end my favourite team win the tournament.

My prediction:
Algeria - Nigeria: 1
Tunisia - Senegal: 1X

0-0 for the moment between Tunisia and Senegal with crazy 2 penalties missed from the two sides!! Unbelievable...
Extra times..

I do hope Senegal wins it, at least for Mane, but i see this match getting decided on Spot Kicks.
I am predicting a final between Senegal and Algeria

Edit:
Senegal now has one goal courtesy of an own goal from Dylan Bronn. It's now second half time of Extra time

I don't know what you think but an obvious penalty kick for Tunisia was cancelled by the VAR.
I am not sure whether the VAR is making football games better or is just ruining it?
Waiting for Algeria vs Nigeria.

Algeria is a goal ahead at half time that too from an own goal from Nigerian player. Nigeria too are playing good, and it's still difficult to predict the winner. Nigeria has a strong new team while Algeria always had been one of the favorite.

Much as VAR has been good at some instances... There has been a fair share of its ugly side too. I would like to give it a benefit of doubt since it is still in its infant stage.
It could use some developments and improvements with time

Yeah. Ironically today the first referee cancelled an obvious penalty for Tunisia while the second one affirmed (by the VAR) another penalty for Nigeria, same circumstances two different decisions... Wonder know why they don't just apply the new strict rules everywhere?
Congratulations Algeria, i think they can do it at the final game!

Just like i stated earlier Algeria are the favorite to win as they haven't lost a single match in this year's tournament also they're the highest scoring team among the four semifinalist and has the least goal conceded with just one goal. Nigeria on the other hand have been struggling throughout their matches especially the knock out stages. Today Algeria out played us and luck wasn't on our side as usual. Congratulations to Senegal and Algeria the finalist of this year's Africa Cup of nation. My bet is on Senegal. Hopefully they win so Mane will have a upper hand against Salah for the African footballer of the year award, he deserves it

As i said earlier Algeria will win the Africa cup this year, today was a very difficult match but we did it and we won in the last minute and it's was a wonderful goal by mahrez , Nigeria played well today but this's football eventually and good luck for them next time and i expect that Nigeria will take the third place in this competition.
And about the finale match gainst Senegal i won't say it will be an easy match for us because we already won against it on group stage, but everything is possible and the match will be difficult for both teams.

Yeah, unbelievable what happened in the match, it was an obvious penalty kick for Tunisia and was canceled  by the referee even that he checked the VAR.
And if the penalty kick was counted i'm sure a lot of changes will happen. Poor Tunisia.

Senegal did stutter as I thought they might, but I guess it's good it happened now before the final. Incredible how many penalties they've missed in play... and then to progress in ET through an own goal? You never know, these kinds of stumbles pave the way for the eventual victory.

Tunisia definitely hard done by. To come out of the blocks the way they did in 2nd half... Senegal only added 3 shots after the break (for an entire game total of 1 shot on target... which was the penalty!).

I almost won my parlay too. Senegal/Algeria would have netted me over 5/1 but the score was nil-nil for Senegal at FT.

I feel like this year's game as not so competitive as some years ago.
Historical nations with strong teams didn't play good football. At least I am happy that Senegal and Mane made all this way to the tournament and I hope they will manage to win it in the end, and be the champions of the Copa Africa Cup.

Most of the giants fell off the cliff because of lack of preparation and not featuring good players for the teams, the surprises of these giants made me to change my method of betting. Most of my betting this season where waste because of these surprises from the entire tournament.

Difficult game yesterday for Senegal but they managed to win the game in extra time and they did not concede any goal. Nigeria is out of the tournament after a 90+5 minute goal from Algeria.I think that the favourite to win the competition right now is Senegal in a final game which will be a beautiful game to watch,Algeria is never to be underestimated but I think Senegal will win.

wow yesterday referee was obviously trying to get Algeria out of the game 'Bakary Gassama' He ruins the finale of Africa champions league and now he is referee again in semi half Africa referee never change it was a miracle that Algeria win that game

Personally I didn't see any obvious reason why you allege the referee of attempt to remove the Algeria from the semifinals because the referee did a good job in my own opinion yesterday. Algeria where just a good team and likewise Nigeria but luck was not on the part of the Nigeria.

Nature just reward Algeria yesterday. If Nigeria wins it could have been under luck because the Algeria players played very impressively and if they did not win it could have been a great surprise to me and those that watch the match. the Algeria team really deserved this cup this time and I believe they are going to win the African cup of the nation this year.

Nigeria's luck ran out this time. Personally, I was not impressed with the way they performed in their previous matches. In the semis, they started slow which cost them the game.

The title is for Senegal this time to be honest, I just can’t see Algeria winning although it would be a nice story if they did as they are under dogs & have been all tournament.

It would be the first time for Senegal if hey won the Africa Cup of Nations this time while Algeria had already won it once.
Senegal surely is in a better form to do that. Algeria has struggled all the way through and the semis too were a close call.
Senegal would be the favorite for many, yet I wouldn't rule out the chance of Algeria. It's going to be a competitive finals.

Algeria performance was incredible in this cup and they missed too many opportunities in each game that could killed every game from the beginning!
Senegal was good but in the last game was pathetic and clueless. If they played like this vs Algeria, it will be a shameful loss imo..

It is going to be a very open game and both teams have an equal chance of lifting the trophy.

The third place should easily be Nigeria's, I guess. Their performance against Algeria wasn't the best and I was expecting them to lose as the game went on.

no way Algeria has won against Senegal in group stage and Tunisia played very well vs Senegal and koulibaly is not going to play the finale

______________________________________________________________________
Please someone wakehim up he have to go back to nigeria
https://i.imgur.com/DrqvcE3.jpg

I second you on this one, Senegal is more physical, most of them are very fast on the ball and also they're very skillful. If Senegal will learn from their mistakes especially Mane and shot at first sight instead of trying to dribble the goalkeeper he can easily score 2/3 goals. He did miss many chances against Tunisia just because he wanted to dribble pass the goalkeeper instead of acting as a strike (score with the easiest way possible). Also since most of the defenders are taller clearing set pieces won't be a problem. The only thing that can cause them goals are free kicks in dangerous position taken by Mahrez.

Algeria team played like a typical European team style of football with a well organized and compact team from their defence line to the midfield their striker is a dangerous and aggressive player this is based on my personal analysis when they played Nigeria while Senegal are more physical with little technical abilities based on my own opinion I believe Algeria is going to carry the day if they can deal with the physical strength of Senegal.
Obviously the third place is going to Nigeria the team will want to bring smiles to their teeming fans after a dismal performance against Algeria and might want to prove critics wrong having been subjected to a lot criticism after their last match.

The God of the football has to be extremely be on the side of Senegal for them to take this cup. The kind of game I see Algerian footballers played Nigeria I think it is very difficult for Senegal to win them. Remember that Nigeria were rated as one of the best team in this year Africa cup of nation but were kick out by Algeria.

I don't think there is a clear favorite, the odds are very close... and even the odds for a draw are relatively low.

https://oddspedia.com/football/africa/cup-of-nations/senegal-algeria-2843954/

BTW I don't understand how a draw could happen  ???

I've been backing the Lions throughout the tournament, and it's a bit more than just liking their physicality (I like that a lot about football, and that's partly because of the football I grew up with and played). They've been the constant favourites by bookies but really, it's only been because of Mane's presence.

Algeria shouldn't be the underdog at all though. Look at their matchwinner in the semis. Mahrez. That guy won the EPL title with an unfancied team and then won the title again with a fancied team. Algeria are the silkiest team of the final, Senegal are straight up strong and fast. You're absolutely right that they need to just play more direct instead of dribbling, but perhaps the quality of that semi was so horrendous they felt like they had to conjure some magic.

It's really sad this tourney still had so many empty seats but let's hope the final is a bit more atmospheric. Shame on my sports tv package that not a single one is showing it, shame on the prices also... $30 I read for a ticket? Who on earth in normal Cairo can afford to pay for that? And it's supposedly all modern with webchecking or whatever, it's as if organisers have no clue about the average football fan. I didn't even need a digital check for European games why did they do something so complicated for AFCON?

@Saintloup: Those are full-time odds. Not includin extra time or penalty shootout if it gets to that stage.

The Algerians are at the moment being tipped to win the tournament and it wouldn't be surprising at all if they end up winning, their game against the Super Eagles was one of the best games of the tournament aside the South Africa and Egypt game.

Oh yes you're right  :D it's obvious now, it's the only possible reason. thank you  ;)

I believe the same as you that Algeria is going to win the title.
However, I also think that Senegal is a great team with aggressive attacking players especially Mane is amazing, and they can steal the win in any counter attack.

The same seems to be the thinking of most of the Users. Earlier it was Nigeria predicted to win the cup, now as they're playing for the third place there is more chances for Nigeria to take the third place. When we talk about the final Algeria is strong with good players, and Senegal on the other side will not let Algeria grab the cup easily. Even there are chances for a match conclusion with additional time.

Algeria certainly have not struggled all the way through, they have had some tough matches like every other team.
They are the highest scoring team and have conceded the fewest goals. They also play a very open and fluid type of football. Senegal has also been impressive. It'd be a tough fixture, but I would be backing the North Africans.

Rooting for my boy Sadio Mane to bring the AFCON trophy back to Senegal, he can become not just an LFC hero but also a hero for his country. I think & hope that Senegal will win tomorrow.

@LFC: Yeah if Mane comes back with the medal, he and Bobby are going to have that extra spring in their step. Salah will be envious but the pressure's good for him.

I got my money on Tunisia to cause an upset tonight. Simple bet. Parlayed with a City win that already took place (against West Ham) so I'm looking at 5/1. Sorry guys, I know many Nigerians are here but I think their slow starts in previous games will be punished again tonight!


Yeah. You must be really new to sportsbetting huh. Open an account, read the ToC, start betting;)

I do not think envious is the right word, sure he regrets not going further in the tournament and losing on home soil, but I believe he would rather a team mate/friend won it and would celebrate with him.
We may never know his reaction as my money is on the Algerians to take this one home.

I’m not watching Tunisia vs Nigeria but I think Nigeria will probably be too strong & take the 3rd spot.
I’ll definitely watch the final tomorrow though & expect to see the Senegalese dancing around with the trophy at the end of the match.

Am with you on this one & also hoping it does happens as 3rd place is a poor result putting into consideration we missed last two edition after winning 2013 edition. We expected so much from the guys and they disappointed. But when you think about it the boys might not just play well themselves as 3rd position means nothing for a nation like Nigeria. We already lost and I'm sure many Nigerians won't be interested in watching the match, i know I won't. Just waiting for the finals to watch Mane display.

Maybe I will watch the tunisia vs Nigeria match. Because the match will begin in a few hours. I'm not sure Nigeria will be easy to win in the match. Because the two teams are both strong teams, because it is very difficult to determine who will be in the third position later.

Tunisia vs Nigeria is about to start.
I have hope that Nigeria is going to rule this match and I will possibly bet on them to score over 1.5 goals in the match.

Nigeria took an early lead with just 3 minutes on the clock, courtesy of a goal form Ighalo, there's only 6 minutes left before the break.

The game has been a boring one so far, both teams are not looking threatening.

I thought you said you're Nigeria and you ought ti support your team till the very end. Although, I knew you guys expected such from the players due to the team previous performance in the World cup and the African cup of nationals but honestly, winning the third place of the tournament still mean something cause some countries which has FIFA higher ranking than Nigeria went home empty handed.

i think that Senegal will take the title people here in Algeria are preparing for the title if the players think like this they will lose the game

As for me i have been neutral throughout the tournament but i would love Senegal to take it home.
This should be Mane's year given the way he has tried to work hard for it.

Nigeria team claimed the third spot as you presumed but a lot of we Nigerians are not happy cause we expected something more from the team rather than the third spot.
Nevertheless, the final game will be play on July 19 @20:00 +1GMT not today.

I go for Algeria as the winner of this year AFCON tournament.

I picked the Eagles of Carthage in yesterdays match up thinking we would see a 2:1 or 3:2 type of game but they couldnt find the net.
At the very least I can claim 10 free spins from sportsbet. (I make it a habit to take a screen shot when using a BITCOIN sportsbook in case I dont get my free spins) 
https://i.imgur.com/ZBQ8kE8.png

That's almost impossible because, if the Algeria's play the so Mich game they had played since the start of the tournament they will definitely take the first position. Although anything can happen and anybody can win the game Base on luck or the god of soccer.

I guess you guys in Algeria are just really excited & planning to party before, during & hopefully for you guys after the game. The players will be nervous but focused. There won’t be any complacency from the players, they be will totally concentrating. It is their chance to be national heroes.

It might mean something to others but not to us. And yes I'm a Nigeria but we played badly in this tournament getting lucky throughout with just a goal win difference. Reading online I heard the 20 year old goalkeeper did excellently just wondering why he wasn't used previously maybe it's time for the coach to go. I support my country and national team but they didn't leave up to expectations and can't see myself seating down to watch them struggle for third position. Did something better with my time. Congratulations to them though for wining the 3rd position but they can do better.

And in the end Nigeria was only able to create 1 goal until the match ended. That means Tunisia are unable to defeat Nigeria in the race for rank 3. Indeed many people predict the more seeded Nigeria for this match. So we are just waiting for the Final match later.

Damn me and damn Tunisia haha but well done Nigeria. I know it's small consolation but it's still some bragging rights. And regarding Nigeria, supporting your team is always a tough call and I know my own pains with my home state's team (it's a state club). You feel sometimes like you need to be loyal and watch them all the time, you know how it is. Live or die, you didn't really choose clubs, it's just the club you were born to watch. And the same almost for national teams.

Oh well enough flip flap. Senegal ftw, I booked only a simple firsthalf win at over 3/1. Only bet worth taking as FT isn't even 2/1.

I was definitely so unlucky yesterday.
Nigeria scored so early so I had all the fonts of winning my bet. I thought not to cashout and keep waiting for the second goal but it never came. At least Nigeria passed through the next stage.

My suspicions were correct, Breaking News: Nigeria captain Mikel Obi confirms international retirement. source: BCCsport (https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/amp/football/49035486?__twitter_impression=true)

I must say he have served his country in the best way possible to him. Putting in all his best for every game and won some numbers of medals with the team over the years (15years) maybe the 3rd position isn't that bad since he got to retired with a medal just as they (him & coach) must have planned all along as he didn't play much impact on field in the teams success this time around.  Wish him all the best and thanking him for the memories and service to country.

https://i.imgur.com/2lTx5yp.jpghttps://i.imgur.com/Y4Eo2E2.jpg

He would go down as one of the treats to play the game for the super eagles. Although there are those who believe he did not reach his full potential, from the platform of the juniour world cup and Olympics. But he has been committed all through, and won for both club and country.
We wish him luck in all future endeavours.

I do not think there is any clear favorite for the title, it's 50/50 between the both teams, but for me Senegal have a slight edge based on previous games and I think they are going home with the trophy.

I've put money on Senegal to win and I'll be backing them, I love the way the boys attack and defend as a team, it's easy for them to create chances and they give quite a few away at the other end.
They've got all the characters of champions, but Algeria is definitely a perfect match, it'll be a game to watch.

The Senegalese might be the favourite to win this edition of the African cup but Algeria have the last say about this...which gives it's people all the rights to prepare for the celebration party and fyi from the last games I have seen them play, I think their confidence has grown...the likes of Mahrez have stepped up their game and maybe on the game day the Algerians might deliver.

John Mikel obi undoubtedly has play a huge role in Nigeria success and it's about time he hung his international shoes even in club football he has really achieved greatness he is a complete football and I duff my hat for the legend

In this African Cup final, Senegal is certainly more seeded than Algeria. But behind do not worry for the supporters of Algeria, it's just a revelation as always as always there in the final of a seeded team. Because in the final match later that can prove who can be the champion. So all the defensive teams have the chance to win, even for Senegal or Algeria. Because it is indeed difficult to predict.

It's really tight but Senegal is still the favorite of bookmakers. It will be a great match this evening IMO but it's too risky to bet on it. Too much uncertainty.
https://www.oddschecker.com/football/africa-cup-of-nations/senegal-v-algeria/winner

Senegal are definitely favourites but in a final anything can happen. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Algeria win but I do still expect Senegal to be too strong.

Let’s see what happens tonight.

Senegal does have a really good FIFA ranking, and it's been generally good ever since their world cup appearance in 2002, but I've got to say that as a team, they've always been slightly overrated in Africa itself. On the international stage, I think they overperform but they're not very much different from many teams if you watch them. Algeria on the other hand play differently, and individual talents probably rank higher on technical levels.

Riyad Mahrez vs Sadio Mane does encapsulate that difference. Good thing I much prefer physicality and daring, which just oozes out of our monster Mane!

I don't think there is any favorite going into the game, both teams does have an equal chance, even according to the bookies.

I'll be rooting for Algeria to win the trophy anyways.

That will definitely be the best option if am to chose for my self. Algeria is pretty much the favorite team to win the final because they had played a good and surprised game in this tournament, and in will go with them for the trophy. Been that anything can happen, doesn't aplly to Algeria not wining the finals, had already bet on Algeria and hope to see you all for a drink after the final whistle.... ;)

I do not write get while majority are viewing algeriayas the under dogs, they have been brilliant so far in this tournament, arguably the best team up till this point. And they are also more successful than Senegal in previous AFCON competitions. It would be a tight match, and also a great watch.

That's probably going to be their undoing, Algeria have taken a very early lead with just over a minute on the clock.

This match will turn out to be a very interesting one, I want to see how Senegal will approach the rest of the game, It's still too early to jump into conclusions, game on!

What do you know, Algeria are leading ::)

And with the agency of Senegal are in I am expecting a Red card in this game with the challenges been thrown at them by the Algerians.

Seems like Algeria has a great advantage to win the match.
I hope that Senegal will be able to score a goal in order to see a more competitive game till the final minute.

algeria leading the game did you see when mané beat feghouli and referee dont give him a mistake and there was a fight after half time
______
NO FAUT
https://i.imgur.com/9oAQZqB.png

Still 1-0 for Algeria, and only 15 minutes left. I really think Algeria will win the match.

Congratulations to Algeria winners of the 2019 edition of the Africa Cup of Nation. Algeria wins without losing a single game. Senegal gave in all their best but couldn't equalize the early goal scored in the 2nd minute. Man of the match award goes to the Algeria goalkeeper. Mane (Liverpool) did all he could but once again falls short to Manchester city (in the person of) Mahrez. Congratulations to all Algerians.

Congratulations to Algeria but that match was terrible. It was won with one of the luckiest goals you will ever see, Algeria parked the bus after & Senegal through a lack of quality couldn’t find a way through. One of the lowest quality games I can remember.

Yes the algerian goalkeeper, Raïs M'Bolhi, made the algerian victory I think.

http://scd.rfi.fr/sites/filesrfi/dynimagecache/0/32/4928/2785/1024/578/sites/images.rfi.fr/files/aef_image/000_DV1800655_0.jpg

That's unfair of you to say!

It was a team effort and everyone did the defending....maybe even packed the bus because they created less chances for themselves...or is this low scoring margin because of the competition ??

Yeah, it wasn't good match to watch. This goal of Algeria is very lucky indeed. Algeria tonight made just 1 shot during whole match in total and it was enough to win. Finals are often not most eye-catching matches, but this one was really bad. Well, congrats to Algeria and for those who supported them.

As i said before and with so much faith on my national team Algeria to win the African cup and they didn't fail me, And without having lost a single game since this cup started algerian team crowned as king of Africa after winning against Senegal.
For the match it was really boring, after the first goal scored by Bounedjah in the 2nd minute and it was a strange and lucky goal for algeria. After that goal we didn't see any other chance from algeria and that because the whole team have turned into defenders,  Senegal team tried to score back since that goal even they had a possession of 63% with 12 shots but they failed to score.
So good luck for Senegal in next competitions and congratulations for us.

The luck was always with Algeria. It's their second Africa Cup while Senegal is still devoid of one. No doubt they are a good team but whole of this competition had been a tough call for every of the finalist. Anyway congratulations to the wining side.

Congratulations to Algeria, they deserved to win the trophy.
In general, I found the whole tournament really boring... Even the final was a bad game with a score of 0-1... The African cup always had interesting matches. I hope that next time it won't be so boring as it was this year.

I agree that the tournament was somewhat boring this year.

I'll be locking the thread now, Thanks to everyone for their contribution towards the discussion.

Until next time, BR.