Namibia advances to Africa Cup of Nations knockout stages for the first time, while Tanzania exits after a draw

Namibia has made history by advancing to the knockout stages of the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time following a goalless draw against Mali. Securing four points from three matches, including a crucial 1-0 win against Tunisia in their opening group game, the Brave Warriors secured a spot in the last 16 as one of the top third-placed teams. Despite a defensive performance with only 33% possession and one shot on target against Mali, manager Collin Benjamin expressed immense pride in being Namibian. He commended the players for their character and determination.

Prior to the current edition, Namibia had qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations finals only three times. However, following their recent qualification, they are set to compete against Angola in the next stage with a spot in the quarter-finals at stake. The draw also sees Mali advancing as group winners for the third consecutive tournament, though they have not reached the last eight since 2013.

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They earned the opportunity to compete in the quarter-finals against Burkina Faso on January 30. Tanzania, aspiring to emulate Namibia’s success in reaching the knockout stages for the first time, aimed for a victory in their last group game against DR Congo to secure advancement to the last 16.

Yet, Hemed Morocco’s team, considered one of the least ranked in the tournament, could not break through a resilient opposing defense. By securing a draw and earning a point, DR Congo, the last champions of AFCON in 1974, secured the second spot in the group with a record of three draws from three matches. Their next challenge will be against Egypt for a chance to reach the quarter-finals.