Wed Dec 31 21:24:49 UTC 2025: ## AFCON Last 16 Set: Ivory Coast to Face Burkina Faso After Thrilling Comeback

Marrakesh, Morocco – A dramatic final day of group stage action at the Africa Cup of Nations has finalized the lineup for the last 16, with defending champions Ivory Coast staging a stunning comeback to top Group F.

The Elephants, led by substitute Bazoumana Toure’s stoppage-time winner, overcame a 2-0 deficit to defeat Gabon 3-2 in Marrakesh. Gabon took an early lead through Guelor Kanga and Denis Bouanga, but Jean-Philippe Krasso pulled one back before halftime. Substitute Evann Guessand equalized late in the second half before Toure sealed the victory.

The win secured Ivory Coast’s place at the top of Group F on goal difference, as they finished level on points with Cameroon.

In Agadir, Cameroon secured their place in the knockout stages with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Mozambique. Geny Catamo put Mozambique ahead, but an own goal by Feliciano ‘Nene’ Jone leveled the score. Christian Kofane then scored a spectacular winner in the 55th minute, a powerful strike from outside the box that hit the underside of the crossbar.

The results mean Ivory Coast will face Burkina Faso in the last 16, while Cameroon will take on South Africa. In a surprise matchup, Mozambique will face Nigeria.

The knockout stages promise further excitement as the competition intensifies, with the remaining teams battling for the coveted AFCON title.

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