Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana await pot 2 fate in exciting AFCON draw

AFCON Cote d'Ivoire 2023: Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana in pot 2 — Credit: Icon Sport

The anticipation is building as Africa's premier football tournament, the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), draws closer to its 2023 edition hosted by Cote d'Ivoire.

With the qualifiers now concluded, the focus shifts to the all-important draw that will determine the groups for the tournament.

The Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana find themselves among the teams in Pot 2, and the upcoming draw, scheduled for October 12th, will decide their opponents and set the stage for a thrilling competition.

Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana road to AFCON Cote d'Ivoire

Victor Osimhen of Nigeria celebrates his goal during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers — Credit: Icon Sport

The journey to AFCON 2023 has been filled with excitement and challenges for all participating nations.

Nigeria, one of Africa's football giants, stamped their ticket to the tournament by finishing atop Group A with an impressive 15 points.

The Super Eagles showcased their dominance throughout the qualifiers, demonstrating their intent to reclaim the continental glory they last captured in 2013.

Nigeria's journey in the competition promises to be one filled with high expectations.

On the other hand, South Africa's qualification campaign in Group K was marked by a different set of circumstances.

They played just four games, but their performance was impressive enough to secure their place in the tournament.

Bafana Bafana finished at the summit of their group with 7 points, showcasing their determination to make a statement in Cote d'Ivoire.

Despite the limited number of matches played, South Africa's squad is brimming with potential and is eager to make an impact.

The upcoming draw

The draw for the group stage of AFCON 2023 is an event eagerly awaited by fans, pundits, and football enthusiasts alike.

It is the moment when the participating teams will discover their opponents and the path they must navigate to reach the knockout stages.

Nigeria and South Africa, both residing in Pot 2, will be looking to avoid the tougher groups but also to embrace the challenge that awaits.

Defending champions Senegal, football powerhouses Nigeria, and perennial contenders Morocco are all expected to be among the pre-tournament favorites.

These teams boast rich footballing histories and have consistently performed well on the continental stage.

However, as history has shown, AFCON tournaments often spring surprises, and underdogs can rise to the occasion.

The Fierce Competition

South Africa players celebrates victory with fans during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers match between South Africa and Morocco — Credit: Icon Sport

One of the most exciting aspects of AFCON is the sheer talent and diversity of teams that participate.

From North Africa to Southern Africa, the tournament brings together the best footballing nations on the continent.

Each team carries the hopes and dreams of their nation, and the competition for continental glory is fierce and unrelenting.

With an expanded 24-team format, AFCON 2023 promises to be even more competitive than previous editions.

Emerging talents, seasoned veterans, and passionate fanbases will all converge in Cote d'Ivoire, creating an electrifying atmosphere that celebrates the essence of African football.