Clarion Newschannel Sports Update
– December 29, 2025
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco continues to deliver thrilling action as the group stage reaches its decisive phase. Defending champions Ivory Coast were pegged back in a pulsating 1-1 draw against five-time winners Cameroon, while Mozambique celebrated their first-ever AFCON victory in a five-goal thriller against Gabon. Algeria booked their spot in the round of 16, and Nigeria edged closer to progression.
In a heavyweight Group F clash in Marrakech on Sunday, Manchester United’s Amad Diallo lit up the tournament once again with a stunning curled strike in the 51st minute – his second goal in as many games – to give the Elephants the lead. However, Cameroon’s Junior Tchamadeu equalized just five minutes later with a deflected effort, ensuring both sides share the spoils. Both teams now sit on four points atop Group F, with Cameroon edging the goal difference. Ivory Coast’s earlier 1-0 win over Mozambique came courtesy of Diallo, highlighting the young winger’s growing influence.
Earlier in the day, Mozambique scripted history in Agadir with a 3-2 victory over Gabon, ending a 40-year wait for their maiden AFCON win. Goals from Faizal Bangal, Geny Catamo (penalty), and Diogo Calila sealed the comeback triumph despite replies from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alex Moucketou-Moussounda. The result lifts Mozambique to three points, keeping their knockout hopes alive.
In Group E, Algeria secured their place in the last 16 with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Burkina Faso, courtesy of a Riyad Mahrez penalty. Sudan also caused an upset with a 1-0 victory over Equatorial Guinea.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles are on the brink of topping Group C after previously holding off a spirited Tunisia comeback for a crucial win, ensuring progression with a game to spare.
Attention now turns to today’s crucial Matchday 3 fixtures in Group A, where hosts Morocco – currently leading with four points – face Zambia, while Mali take on Comoros. Both matches kick off simultaneously at 19:00 GMT, with Morocco aiming to secure top spot and advance in front of their home fans.
The tournament, featuring 24 teams across six groups, sees the top two from each plus the four best third-placed sides advance to the knockout stage. With surprises and star performances already defining AFCON 2025, the race for glory in Morocco is heating up.
Stay tuned to Clarion Newschannel for live updates and full coverage.
Drama and History Unfold at AFCON 2025: Holders Ivory Coast Held, Mozambique Make Breakthrough
