What a rollercoaster ride African football can be—where dreams are made or shattered in 90 minutes, and every goal feels like the turning point of a nation's pride! As we dive into the electrifying updates from Matchday 7 of the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, you're in for a treat of drama, heart-stopping moments, and that nail-biting tension that keeps fans glued to their screens. Whether you're a die-hard soccer enthusiast or just discovering the magic of AFCON—the premier tournament for Africa's national teams—this recap will break it down simply, highlighting how these games could redefine group standings and spark endless debates. But here's where it gets controversial: Is it fair that some teams seem cursed by history, or do they just need a fresh strategy to break free? Stick around, because we're about to unpack the action, and trust me, you won't want to miss the twists.
Good morning and welcome to our live blog coverage of Matchday 7 of the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations here in Morocco. Today marks the third day of the second round of group-stage matches, with four crucial games lined up across the country as qualification battles start to heat up for real. For beginners, AFCON is Africa's biggest football feast, bringing together the continent's best teams to compete for glory—think of it as the Olympics of soccer, but with even more passion and cultural flair.
Yesterday was packed with excitement, topped off by Nigeria's thrilling 3–2 triumph over Tunisia, catapulting the Super Eagles to the top of Group C. Meanwhile, Senegal and DR Congo stayed neck-and-neck at the summit of Group D, showing how razor-thin the margins are getting. The pressure is mounting, and every point now feels like gold. Throughout the day, we'll bring you live updates, highlight the key moments, capture the buzzing atmosphere, and share the latest competition news as events play out. All times are in GMT. Let's jump in—four more games mean plenty more drama ahead!
Live Updates: Gabon vs Mozambique (Group F)
Venue: Stade d’Adrar, Agadir
Kick-off: 12:30 GMT
The first matchday build-up is buzzing in Agadir as Gabon and Mozambique gear up for a vital Group F clash. Both teams are chasing their first victory after narrow defeats in their opening games, making this fixture feel like a must-win showdown. And this is the part most people miss: Mozambique has endured a staggering 16 AFCON matches without a win—a streak that's begging to end, while Gabon hasn't secured a second-group-match victory since 2012. Could today be the day one of these records crumbles? Fans are pouring in, with Gabonese supporters in prominent yellow and Mozambique's crew adding rhythm with drums and chants.
Team news suggests Gabon might tweak their midfield for better ball control and attacking flair, sticking close to the setup from their loss to Cameroon. Mozambique's coaches are stressing solid defense but with more intent to push forward, relying on star Geny Catamo, who shone in the opener with precise shots. For context, this is the first-ever AFCON finals meeting between the Panthers (Gabon) and the Mambas (Mozambique), but all seven prior encounters in other competitions have seen goals fly—great news for neutral fans!
10:10 GMT: Gabon's squad is calm yet determined. After a 1–0 setback to Cameroon, the Panthers recognize that slipping up here could jeopardize their knockout hopes. Veteran Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, at his fifth AFCON, is poised to lead by example.
10:20 GMT: Mozambique faces immense pressure. Their winless streak at AFCON continues, but head coach confidence is high after a disciplined showing against Côte d’Ivoire, despite the 1–0 loss.
10:30 GMT: This marks a first-ever AFCON finals clash. Interestingly, all seven previous meetings have produced goals—an encouraging stat for neutrals.
10:40 GMT: Early scenes in Agadir show steady fan movement toward Stade d’Adrar. Gabonese colors dominate, while Mozambique supporters make their presence known with rhythmic beats.
10:50 GMT: Team updates indicate Gabon may refine their midfield to enhance progression and attack.
11:00 GMT: Mozambique's staff emphasizes defense with a forward push, keeping Geny Catamo as their go-to attacker.
11:10 GMT: Tournament context: Group F is wide open post-round one. Victory today would give either side a massive boost toward the Round of 16.
11:20 GMT: Players arrive at the stadium an hour and ten minutes before kick-off, per CAF rules. Pitch looks perfect in Agadir.
11:30 GMT: Warm-ups begin. Aubameyang is active for Gabon, while Mozambique's keeper Ernan Siluane practices saves. Line-ups are set.
11:40 GMT: Reminder: Gabon haven't won a second group match at AFCON since 2012. Mozambique have never avoided defeat in theirs—will one break today?
11:50 GMT: The stadium fills with anticipation. Both supporter groups understand the stakes, as a loss might dash knockout dreams.
12:00 GMT: Final tactical talks on the benches. Coaches are animated, stressing the 90 minutes ahead.
12:10 GMT: Teams head to dressing rooms; anthems in 20 minutes.
12:26 GMT: Teams return for national anthems, raising the energy in Stade d’Adrar.
12:28 GMT: Handshakes and pennant exchanges done; referee checks complete—kick-off imminent.
12:30 GMT – KICK-OFF: We're live in Agadir! Gabon in yellow kick off against Mozambique in red. This Group F decider is underway.
12:40 GMT (10’): A tentative start from both. Gabon controls the ball more, while Mozambique stays compact and counters via the wings.
12:50 GMT (20’): First real chance goes to Gabon, but Mozambique keeper Siluane handles it easily. The visitors are still finding their rhythm with possession.
13:00 GMT (30’): Tempo picks up. Mozambique grows bolder, with Mexer forcing Gabon's defense to scramble.
13:07 GMT: GOAL - MOZAMBIQUE: Gabon 0, Mozambique 1. Faizal Bangal nods home from close range into the top left, set up by Geny Catamo's corner cross.
13:09 GMT: PENALTY FOR - MOZAMBIQUE: Bruno Ecuele Manga (Gabon) concedes a foul in the box and gets yellow. Dominguês was fouled.
13:11 GMT: GOAL - MOZAMBIQUE: Gabon 0, Mozambique 2. Geny Catamo slots the penalty low to the left.
13:15 GMT (40’): Midfield tussle intensifies. Didier Ndong drives Gabon's play as halftime nears.
13:20 GMT: GOAL - GABON: Gabon 1, Mozambique 2. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang strikes from the box center after keeper Ernan Siluane punched a shot back into play.
13:21 GMT – HALF-TIME: Ref blows for break. Mozambique leads 2–1 after a lively first half where they capitalized on Gabon's errors. Aubameyang's late goal gives the Panthers hope for the second 45, which promises even more intensity with knockout hopes in the balance.
13:38 GMT – SECOND HALF UNDERWAY: Back in action at Stade d’Adrar. Gabon restarts, hunting the equalizer, while Mozambique aims to hold and counter.
13:45 GMT: GOAL - MOZAMBIQUE: Gabon 1, Mozambique 3. Diogo Calila heads in from the box center, assisted by Witi's cross.
14:00 GMT: Mozambique stays solid defensively, soaking up pressure and slowing the pace. Gabon grows direct and frustrated.
14:05 GMT: Late Gabon push for a draw. Mozambique defends deep, with Siluane commanding his area.
14:09 GMT: GOAL - GABON: Gabon 2, Mozambique 3. Alex Moucketou-Moussounda taps in from very close range after a corner.
14:23 GMT: Seven added minutes signaled. Stadium stands as Gabon goes all-out; Mozambique focuses on holding firm.
14:31 GMT – FULL-TIME: Whistle blows in Agadir. Mozambique clinches a vital 3–2 win, securing their first tournament victory and keeping Group F hopes alive. Gabon, despite a spirited comeback, now faces an uphill battle in the final match.
Live Updates: Equatorial Guinea vs Sudan (Group E)
Venue: Stade Mohamed V, Casablanca
Kick-off: 15:00 GMT
As the dust settles in Agadir, focus shifts north to Casablanca for another Group E survival clash. Equatorial Guinea and Sudan, both winless after opening losses, need points desperately to revive their campaigns. For those new to this, AFCON groups are tight—two teams advance, so every draw or defeat can be devastating. And here's where it gets controversial: Equatorial Guinea has a stellar record in second group matches, undefeated in four prior tournaments, but Sudan often bounces back strongly after first-day setbacks under coach Kwesi Appiah. Will history repeat, or will Sudan break the mold? This game feels like a defining chapter.
14:32 GMT: Stade Mohamed V fills with supporters from both sides, aware of the high stakes—neither can afford to lose.
14:33 GMT: Equatorial Guinea is still reeling from conceding twice in stoppage time after leading Burkina Faso 1–0, their first-ever loss after scoring first at AFCON—a blip they're eager to fix.
14:40 GMT: Sudan aims to end an eight-match winless streak at AFCON finals, having scored just once in their last five appearances. Goals are scarce, but they're fighting hard.
14:42 GMT: History favors Equatorial Guinea; they've won both qualification encounters against Sudan, including a 4–1 romp away.
14:44 GMT: The sides haven't met at AFCON finals, but Sudan's comeback potential is a subplot to watch.
14:46 GMT: Discipline matters: Equatorial Guinea has seen red cards in their last two games, while Sudan played with ten men in their opener.
14:50 GMT: Warm-ups reveal tension; players look focused as the crowd builds.
14:55 GMT: Minutes to kick-off. With hopes fading, this is a reset opportunity—win to spark belief and keep Group E open.
15:00 GMT: We're underway at Stade Mohamed V. Equatorial Guinea starts against Sudan.
15:10 GMT: Cautious start. Equatorial Guinea has more ball, Sudan defends deeply and counters.
15:20 GMT: First chance: Equatorial Guinea striker shoots low from outside, but Sudan's keeper saves easily. Defender Ovono gets treatment for a knock.
15:30 GMT: Sudan grows stronger. Aamir Abdallah's set-piece causes havoc, but the defense clears.
15:40 GMT: Tempo slows as teams prioritize shape. High stakes mean no risks near halftime.
15:58 GMT: Half ends. Tight, tactical 45 minutes with few openings—everything hangs in the balance post-break.
16:12 GMT: Second half begins. Sudan pushes higher, more aggressive.
16:22 GMT: Sudan intensifies, flooding forward for the opener as the game loosens.
16:40 GMT: GOAL: Equatorial Guinea 0, Sudan 1. Own goal by Saúl Coco.
17:01 GMT – FULL-TIME: Referee ends it. Sudan edges out Equatorial Guinea 1–0 for a tough win, keeping their Group E dreams afloat.
Live Updates: Algeria vs Burkina Faso (Group E)
Venue: Stade Prince Moulay Hassan, Rabat
Kick-off: 17:30 GMT
Good evening from Rabat, where Group E takes center stage with a high-profile duel between Algeria and Burkina Faso. Both have three points from round one, so tonight's winner could clinch Round of 16 spots early. For clarity, think of this as a chess game on the pitch—Algeria dominated Sudan 3–0 in their opener, with Riyad Mahrez netting twice to become AFCON's all-time top scorer. Burkina Faso turned a 1–0 deficit into a 2–1 comeback win over Equatorial Guinea in stoppage time, showing incredible grit.
17:01 GMT: As we kick off coverage, remember: A victory here seals knockout progression.
17:10 GMT: Teams arrive to applause, expressions serious—this could decide group fate.
17:25 GMT: Final warm-ups, anthems, and handshakes wrap up.
17:30 GMT: We're live in Rabat. Burkina Faso starts against Algeria.
17:40 GMT: Algeria controls early, passing patiently. Burkina Faso defends well and counters.
17:50 GMT: First chance: Mahrez curls an effort, but Burkina's keeper collects comfortably.
17:52 GMT: PENALTY FOR ALGERIA: Rayan Aït-Nouri fouled in the box by Ismahila Ouédraogo.
17:53 GMT: GOAL FOR ALGERIA: Algeria 1, Burkina Faso 0. Mahrez converts left-footed to the bottom left.
18:00 GMT: Burkina Faso builds confidence, passing neatly. Edmond Tapsoba advances play.
18:10 GMT: Midfield war heats up. Ramy Bensebaïni dictates for Algeria, keeping caution.
18:21 GMT: Half ends. Tight, strategic 45 with Algeria leading 1–0 by just a goal.
18:38 GMT: Second half begins. Burkina Faso presses high to disrupt Algeria.
18:48 GMT: Algeria responds with possession. Baghdad Bounedjah links play in search of gaps.
18:58 GMT: Burkina Faso counters. Georgi Minoungou forces a clearance.
19:14 GMT: Subs on both sides as pace rises—key moments ahead.
19:24 GMT: Late Burkina Faso push. Tapsoba shoots dangerously, but Algeria clears. Four added minutes.
19:27 GMT – FULL-TIME: Whistle blows. Algeria wins 1–0, securing Round of 16 qualification. Burkina Faso's fate hangs on the final matchday.
Live Updates: Côte d’Ivoire vs Cameroon (Group F)
Venue: Stade de Marrakech, Marrakech
Kick-off: 20:00 GMT
As Rabat's match concludes, attention turns south to Marrakech for African football's epic rivalry: Defending champs Côte d’Ivoire versus five-time winners Cameroon. Both have three points from round one—a draw tonight suits both for knockout hopes, but a win could cement dominance. And this is the part most people miss: Their ninth AFCON clash spans over 50 years, with Cameroon holding the historical edge, yet Côte d’Ivoire's 2015 group win led to their title triumph. Controversial point: Some argue Cameroon underachieves due to internal disputes, while Côte d’Ivoire's youth injection sparks debate on experience vs. freshness. What do you think—does pedigree win out?
19:28 GMT: With Algeria's win over Burkina Faso done, the focus is here.
19:30 GMT: Rivalry rundown: Cameroon leads historically, but 2015 was decisive for Côte d’Ivoire.
19:40 GMT: Both teams have three points. Win secures near-qualification; loss complicates things.
19:50 GMT: Teams arrive amid huge noise. Atmosphere electric—this is AFCON's heavyweight night.
20:00 GMT: We're underway in Marrakech. Côte d’Ivoire starts; rivalry ignites.
20:10 GMT: Balanced start. Cameroon defends compactly; Côte d’Ivoire probes. Franck Kessié anchors midfield.
20:20 GMT: Cameroon warning: Christian Kofane crosses dangerously, but Yahia Konesa saves for Côte d’Ivoire.
20:30 GMT: Côte d’Ivoire gains confidence. Amad Diallo forces a save.
20:40 GMT: Cameroon pressure builds; Yongwa and Kotto busy in midfield.
20:46 GMT: Half ends goalless. Tactical, disciplined 45 with chances rare—high stakes mean caution.
21:01 GMT: Second half starts. Both surge with renewed vigor.
21:07 GMT: GOAL: Côte d’Ivoire 1, Cameroon 0. Amad Diallo shoots left-footed from outside to bottom left, assisted by Ghislain Konan.
21:12 GMT: GOAL: Côte d’Ivoire 1, Cameroon 1. Junior Tchamadeu right-foots from right side to top left, set up by Christian Kofane.
21:41 GMT: Late drama. Cameroon attacks fiercely; Côte d’Ivoire holds with experience.
21:48 GMT: Côte d’Ivoire reacts urgently. Zaha replaces Amad; they hunt the winner.
21:55 GMT: Final whistle. Côte d’Ivoire 1–1 Cameroon. Fair result, bolstering both for Round of 16.
Closing Remarks
22:06 GMT: What an unforgettable day at the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco! Matchday 7 in Groups E and F brought thrills, suspense, and closely fought games. Algeria's flawless run continues with six points, edging toward Round of 16, while Burkina Faso and Sudan (three each) face a crucial final round. In Group F, Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon (four points apiece) are poised, Mozambique (three) chases, and Gabon (none) faces elimination.
With races tightening, tomorrow promises more excitement. Thanks for joining our live coverage—key moments, drama, and updates from Morocco await. But before we go, let's stir the pot: Is it time for AFCON to rethink formats to give underdogs more chances, or does the current system reward true champions? Do you see Mozambique's win as a turning point, or will Gabon bounce back? Share your thoughts in the comments—agreement or disagreement welcome!
