Lifting the Trophy: A Look Back at the Africa Cup of Nations Champions

Michael Okonkwo, Middle East Correspondent
2 Min Read
⏱️ 2 min read

As the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations approach, football fans across the continent are eagerly anticipating the thrilling conclusion of this prestigious tournament. Over the years, the Africa Cup of Nations has captivated audiences with its display of exceptional talent and fierce competition, as nations vie for the coveted trophy.

The tournament’s rich history dates back to 1957, when Egypt emerged victorious in the inaugural edition. Since then, 33 subsequent champions have etched their names into the annals of African football history. From the legendary performances of players like Samuel Eto’o and Didier Drogba to the surprise triumphs of underdogs, the Africa Cup of Nations has consistently delivered moments of sheer brilliance and unexpected twists.

Egypt, with seven titles, stands as the most successful nation in the competition’s history, closely followed by Cameroon and Ghana, each boasting five championship wins. Other nations that have tasted glory include Nigeria, Algeria, and Côte d’Ivoire, each with multiple trophies to their name.

The upcoming semi-finals promise to be a thrilling affair, with Senegal taking on Egypt and hosts Morocco facing off against Nigeria. Fans can expect a showcase of the continent’s finest footballing talent, as these teams battle it out for a place in the grand final on 18 January.

As the anticipation builds, football enthusiasts around the world are eager to test their knowledge of the Africa Cup of Nations’ illustrious history. Can you name all 34 past winners of this prestigious tournament? Take our quiz and see how you measure up against the true connoisseurs of African football.

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Michael Okonkwo is an experienced Middle East correspondent who has reported from across the region for 14 years, covering conflicts, peace processes, and political upheavals. Born in Lagos and educated at Columbia Journalism School, he has reported from Syria, Iraq, Egypt, and the Gulf states. His work has earned multiple foreign correspondent awards.
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