The Africa Cup of Nations has always been a tournament where underdogs shine. While giants like Senegal, Egypt, and Morocco dominate headlines, AFCON 2024 could see unexpected teams make deep runs. This guide reveals:
✅ 5 dark horse teams that could shock Africa
✅ Key players behind their potential success
✅ Tactical strengths that make them dangerous
✅ Historical upsets that prove anything is possible
✅ Expert predictions on which underdogs will surprise
Why Underdogs Matter in AFCON
Unlike predictable European tournaments, AFCON regularly produces shocking results:
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2012: Zambia wins as 150/1 underdogs
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2019: Madagascar reaches quarterfinals in debut
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2021: Comoros defeats Ghana despite COVID crisis
This year’s edition in Ivory Coast could deliver even more surprises. Here are the most dangerous underdogs:
1. Mali – The Silent Contenders
Why They’re Dangerous:
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Undefeated in 2023 qualifiers (5 wins, 1 draw)
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Young, physical squad blending European experience
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Favorable Group E draw (Tunisia, Namibia, South Africa)
Key Player: Yves Bissouma (Tottenham)
The midfield destroyer gives Mali steel against top opponents.
Expert Take:
“Mali has the best midfield outside the favorites. If their forwards click, they’re semifinal material.” – African Football Weekly
2. Burkina Faso – 2013 Finalists Eye Redemption
Why They’re Dangerous:
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Reached semifinals in 2021 edition
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Solid defensive organization (5 clean sheets in qualifiers)
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Experienced core from previous AFCON runs
Key Player: Bertrand Traoré (Aston Villa)
The winger’s creativity unlocks stubborn defenses.
3. Cape Verde – The Giant Killers
Why They’re Dangerous:
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Stunned Cameroon in 2022 World Cup qualifiers
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Compact 4-4-2 system frustrates bigger teams
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Europe-based technical players
Key Stat: Only conceded 3 goals in 6 qualifiers
4. Equatorial Guinea – The Ultimate Spoilers
Shock Potential:
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Knocked out Algeria in 2021 group stage
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Physical, counter-attacking style
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Nothing-to-lose mentality
Player to Watch: Emilio Nsue (top scorer in qualifiers)
5. Gambia – Africa’s Smallest Nation With Big Dreams
Why Watch Them:
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Reached quarterfinals in 2021 debut
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Cohesive unit with 80% of squad from domestic league
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Fearless attacking approach
Tactical Trends Helping Underdogs
Modern AFCON upsets happen because:
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European coaching influence improves organization
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More scouts help uncover hidden talents
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Video analysis lets smaller teams exploit weaknesses
Groups Where Upsets Could Happen
Group C (Senegal, Cameroon, Guinea, Gambia)
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Gambia could steal second place from Cameroon
Group E (Tunisia, Mali, South Africa, Namibia)
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Mali might top the group over Tunisia
Expert Predictions: Which Underdog Goes Furthest?
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60% of pundits back Mali for semifinals
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30% believe Burkina Faso repeats 2021 run
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10% wildcard pick is Cape Verde
How to Watch Underdog Matches
Many underdog games will be on:
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SABC (South Africa)
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CAF YouTube highlights
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Free streaming options listed on Soccer NewsZ
Historical Context: Why Believe in Underdogs?
Past AFCON surprises prove:
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1994: Zambia reaches final after plane tragedy
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2012: Didier Drogba’s Ivory Coast loses to underdogs
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2019: Madagascar’s fairytale debut
Final Verdict: Best Underdog Bet
AFCON 2024, Our pick is Mali to reach semifinals at +400 odds. Their balanced squad and favorable draw make them the most likely surprise package.
For daily AFCON 2024 underdog updates, visit Soccer NewsZ.
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