The Greatest Moments in AFCON History: A Complete Guide
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is one of the most highly anticipated and competitive international football tournaments in the world. With a rich history spanning over 60 years, the AFCON has witnessed some of the most thrilling moments in football history. In this article, we will take a journey through the greatest moments in AFCON history, from iconic goals to dramatic upsets.
Early Years (1957-1970)
The first AFCON tournament was held in 1957 in Khartoum, Sudan, and it was won by Egypt. One of the most memorable moments from this era was the 1963 tournament, where Ghana defeated Sudan 3-0 in the final. This victory marked Ghana’s first AFCON title and cemented their position as one of the continent’s top teams.
1959: Egypt wins the AFCON for the second time, defeating Sudan 2-1 in the final.
- 1965: Ghana wins the AFCON for the second time, defeating Tunisia 3-2 in the final.
- 1970: Sudan wins the AFCON, defeating Ghana 1-0 in the final.
The Golden Era (1972-1986)
The 1970s and 1980s are often referred to as the golden era of AFCON history. This period saw the emergence of some of the greatest African footballers of all time, including Cameroon’s Thomas Nkono and Egypt’s Hossam Hassan. One of the most iconic moments from this era was the 1978 tournament, where Cameroon defeated Nigeria 3-2 in the final.
- 1972: Mali wins the AFCON, defeating Guinea 3-2 in the final.
- 1976: Morocco wins the AFCON, defeating Guinea 1-1 (4-2 on penalties) in the final.
- 1980: Ghana wins the AFCON for the third time, defeating Nigeria 3-0 in the final.
- 1984: Cameroon wins the AFCON, defeating Nigeria 3-1 in the final.
- 1986: Egypt wins the AFCON for the third time, defeating Ivory Coast 5-4 in a penalty shootout.
Modern Era (1990-Present)
The modern era of AFCON history has seen the rise of new powers and the emergence of some of the greatest African footballers of all time. One of the most memorable moments from this era was the 2019 tournament, where Algeria defeated Senegal 1-0 in the final to win their second AFCON title.
- 1990: Algeria wins the AFCON, defeating Nigeria 1-0 in the final.
- 1992: Ivory Coast wins the AFCON, defeating Ghana 11-10 in a penalty shootout.
- 1996: South Africa wins the AFCON, defeating Tunisia 2-0 in the final.
- 2000: Cameroon wins the AFCON for the fifth time, defeating Nigeria 3-2 in the final.
- 2010: Egypt wins the AFCON for the seventh time, defeating Ghana 1-0 in the final.
- 2015: Ivory Coast wins the AFCON for the second time, defeating Ghana 9-8 in a penalty shootout.
- 2019: Algeria wins the AFCON, defeating Senegal 1-0 in the final.
The AFCON has a rich history, filled with iconic moments, dramatic upsets, and thrilling goals. From the early years to the modern era, the tournament has seen some of the greatest footballers and teams in African history. As the AFCON continues to grow and evolve, we can expect even more exciting moments in the years to come.
