Lagos, NigeriaIndependent African sports journalism
The Africa Cup of Nations: the teams, the players and the stories.
Football
Ademola Lookman has emerged as the standout performer of AFCON 2025, racking up 7 goal contributions (3 goals, 4 assists) through Nigeria’s group stage and Round of 16 matches. His decisive playmaking and finishing have set him apart, leaving tournament stars like Sadio Mané and Brahim Díaz trailing with just 4 goal involvements each.
By Olonade Philips | 6 Jan 2026 | 2 min read
Football
Nigeria sealed a commanding place in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a resounding 4-0 victory over Mozambique on Monday night, January 5, at the Complexe Sportif de Fes in Morocco. Despite the emphatic scoreline, the match was overshadowed by a touchline drama involving Super Eagles stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.
By Olonade Philips | 6 Jan 2026 | 2 min read
Football
AFCON 2025 enters its knockout phase as 16 teams battle for a place in the quarterfinals across Morocco. Nigeria and Algeria lead the contenders after perfect group stages, while hosts Morocco, Egypt, and Senegal chase glory. From heavyweight clashes to historic firsts, the round of 16 promises high drama and fine margins.
By Olonade Philips | 2 Jan 2026 | 6 min read
Football
Super Eagles sweep past Uganda, finish group stage perfect at AFCON 2025
By Adesanya Babatunde AbdulAzeez | 30 Dec 2025 | 2 min read
Football
AFCON Matchday Two underlined the tournament’s unforgiving nature, as control, possession, and volume failed to guarantee results. Across Groups A and B, discipline, defensive organisation, and mental resilience proved decisive in low-scoring, tightly contested encounters. As the remaining groups prepare to play, the margins remain razor-thin and qualification paths increasingly unpredictable.
By Olonade Philips | 27 Dec 2025 | 3 min read
Football
AFCON 2025 has started in trademark fashion, blending dominance, late drama, and tactical intrigue from the very first kick. Morocco and Egypt showed control and pedigree, while Mali, Zambia, South Africa, and Angola delivered reminders that resilience and efficiency often outweigh possession. As Matchday One rolls on across Groups C to F, the early signs point to a tournament where favourites must stay sharp, and no opponent can be taken lightly.
By Olonade Philips | 23 Dec 2025 | 3 min read
Football
Mohamed Salah’s stunning winner has reignited debates about Africa’s greatest player, as Egypt battles for AFCON glory. Criticised recently for falling short on the international stage, Salah now has the chance to silence his doubters. Meanwhile, Victor Osimhen continues his remarkable scoring run for Nigeria and Napoli, making him a formidable rival. With both players in top form and the African Player of the Year on the line, this AFCON promises a thrilling duel for legacy, pride, and continental supremacy
By Olonade Philips | 23 Dec 2025 | 3 min read
Football
AFCON 2025: Giants tested, underdogs strong, surprises shaping tournament early.
By Adesanya Babatunde AbdulAzeez | 23 Dec 2025 | 3 min read
Football
Lookman and Ajayi fired Nigeria to a dramatic opening victory over Tanzania in Fez.
By Adesanya Babatunde AbdulAzeez | 23 Dec 2025 | 2 min read
Football
Super Eagles unveil bold AFCON 2025 squad, with Osimhen leading and new talents replacing veterans.
By Adesanya Babatunde AbdulAzeez | 11 Dec 2025 | 2 min read
Football
CAF has released the list of referees for the AFCON 2025 preparation camp in Cairo — and once again, no Nigerian official made the cut. The 19-year absence of Nigerian referees from Africa’s biggest football tournament has sparked renewed calls for the NFF to invest more in training and international exposure.
By Olonade Philips | 30 Oct 2025 | 3 min read
.png&w=3840&q=75)
