AFCON 2023: Namibia and Mali Secure Historic Victories, Morocco Triumphs
Namibia records first ever AFCON victory with a win over Tunisia, while Mali dominates South Africa. Morocco also starts strong with a victory over Tanzania.
- Tunisia, a former AFCON champion, faces a challenging path to reach the knockout stages after a surprising loss to Namibia in their opening game. Namibia's Deon Hotto scored the winning goal, marking Namibia's first victory at the Cup of Nations in their fourth visit to the tournament.
- Mali triumphed over South Africa with a 2-0 victory in their opening game in Group B. The victory was secured with goals from Kamory Doumbia and Lassine Sinayoko, highlighting Mali's tactical discipline and teamwork.
- Morocco, the pre-tournament favourites, beat Tanzania 3-0 in their opening game. Romain Saiss, Azzedine Ounahi, and Youssef En-Nesyri scored the goals for Morocco, underlining their status as one of the continent’s top-ranked sides.
- Namibia produced a historic upset to beat Tunisia 1-0, recording its first ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory. Deon Hotto made himself the hero with an 88th-minute winner.
- Burkina Faso secured a 1-0 win over Mauritania with a penalty in second-half stoppage-time. The victory took Burkina Faso top of Group D.