AFCON 2025: Who Is Through to the Round of 16?

Sports Updated: 29 December 2025 14:49 EAT

The final round of group matches at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco is setting the stage for an intense battle for places in the Round of 16 knockout phase.

With the group stage nearing completion, several teams have already secured their spots, while others remain in contention as the decisive matchday approaches.

The tournament format features 24 teams divided into six groups. The top two teams from each group (12 total) automatically advance to the Round of 16. In addition, the four best third-placed teams across all groups will also progress, completing the knockout lineup of 16 teams.

So far, three nations have confirmed their qualification. Egypt secured its spot by finishing strongly in Group B, becoming the first team to guarantee a place in the last 16.

Nigeria booked qualification after a dramatic 3-2 win over Tunisia in Group C, ensuring progression to the knockout rounds, and Algeria sealed their place at the top of Group E following a 1-0 victory over Burkina Faso, capitalising on a decisive penalty.

These teams join the expanding list of sides preparing for the knockout stages, while several other nations are poised to confirm their advancement on the final group matchday. The final group fixtures will determine not only the winners and runners-up but also which third-placed teams will progress.

With only a limited number of places available and fine margins likely to decide qualification, the closing group matches promise high drama and pivotal results as the tournament builds toward the knockout rounds in early January.