AFCON knockout stage raises stakes for Super Eagles and rivals
The Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco has entered the knockout phase, shifting from cautious group stage management to all or nothing football as the Round of 16 begins this weekend.For Nigeria and other contenders, every decision, mistake and moment now carries far greater weight than early group form. Nigeria head into the knockouts as one of the most impressive sides after a perfect group record, free scoring performances and effective squad rotation that secured qualification with a game to spare.However, a late scare in their 3 2 win over Tunisia underlined how quickly control can slip at this stage and how fine the margins now are. Algeria also progressed with maximum points, showing a level of control they lacked in recent editions, while Egypt relied on structure and efficiency to get through.By contrast, defending champions Côte d’Ivoire and perennial […]
