The qualification for the 2023 AFCON quarterfinals brought surprise as North African football powerhouses – Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, and Egypt – all faced unexpected early elimination from the tournament. Despite their strong FIFA rankings, these teams were unable to advance, sparking discussions about the impact of challenging climatic conditions in Cote d’Ivoire where humidity reaches 90-95 per cent during the hottest months of January and February.
The underwhelming performances of these teams have prompted a closer look at the historical AFCON tournaments, particularly those hosted in West Africa, revealing a pattern of underperformance by North African nations since the 1990s. Notably, all North African teams, including Egypt, were eliminated by the round of 16 in the 2023 AFCON, marking a departure from past successes.
Several factors have been attributed to the North African teams’ decline, including complacency, tactical rigidity, internal issues, individual errors, and the rise of other African regions. However, it is premature to suggest a crisis as this is just one tournament, and the region still possesses immense talent, potential, and well-organized football leagues.
A Forbes AFCON preview noted that North African sides dominate FIFA rankings but have not won an AFCON tournament held south of the Sahara since 2010, highlighting a shift in football dynamics on the continent. It is worth noting that North African countries have collectively won the AFCON tournament 11 times, with Egypt contributing to over half of these successes with seven titles.
The early exit of North African teams has significant implications for other contenders, including Nigeria, who now have a clearer path to AFCON glory. With the next tournament set for Morocco in 2025, North Africa has the opportunity to address the pitfalls of their recent campaign and make a strong comeback.
Cote d’Ivoire has provided excellent playing surfaces that have ensured fair competition, allowing every country to showcase its football prowess, despite the unexpected outcomes of AFCON 2023.
