The Top 10 Most Successful Nations at the AFCON
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is the ultimate stage for African football. Over the years, some nations have risen above the rest to dominate the competition, lifting the trophy and creating unforgettable moments. Here’s a look at the top 10 most successful AFCON nations, ranked from least to most titles, with historical context and fun facts.
10. Tunisia – 1 Title
The Carthage Eagles won their only AFCON in 2004, hosted at home. Tunisia’s victory was a historic moment for North African football.
Notable Achievement: Tunisia’s win inspired a generation of players, including Wahbi Khazri and Youssef Msakni.
9. Zambia – 1 Title
The Chipolopolo of Zambia claimed their first AFCON title in 2012, a victory made even more emotional after the 1993 air disaster that claimed the national team.
Fun Fact: Their 2012 win against Ivory Coast came on penalties and is considered one of African football’s most inspirational stories.
8. Senegal – 1 Title
The Lions of Teranga won their first AFCON in 2021, after several near misses in previous tournaments.
Notable Achievement: Senegal reached the final four times before finally lifting the trophy, showing resilience and persistence.
7. DR Congo – 2 Titles
The Leopards of DR Congo, formerly Zaire, have won two AFCON titles (1968, 1974).
Fun Fact: DR Congo’s 1968 victory made them the first Central African nation to lift the trophy. Their 1974 team later qualified for the FIFA World Cup, becoming Africa’s second nation to do so.
6. Algeria – 2 Titles
Algeria has lifted the AFCON trophy twice (1990, 2019). Known as the Desert Foxes, they combine technical skill with tactical discipline.
Notable Achievement: Their 2019 victory ended a 29-year drought, thrilling fans across the nation.
5. Nigeria – 3 Titles
The Super Eagles have won three AFCON titles (1980, 1994, 2013).
Fun Fact: Nigeria’s 1994 squad was a golden generation, producing world-class talents who starred in European leagues.
4. Ivory Coast – 3 Titles
The Elephants of Ivory Coast have lifted the trophy three times (1992, 2015, 2019).
Notable Achievement: The 2015 AFCON final against Ghana went to penalties, highlighting Ivory Coast’s nerve under pressure.
3. Ghana – 4 Titles
The Black Stars of Ghana are four-time champions (1963, 1965, 1978, 1982).
Fun Fact: Ghana was the first African nation to reach a FIFA U-20 World Cup final, showing their depth of talent.
2. Cameroon – 5 Titles
The Indomitable Lions have won five AFCON titles (1984, 1988, 2000, 2002, 2017).
Notable Achievement: Cameroon won three AFCON titles in six years, establishing themselves as a powerhouse.
1. Egypt – 7 Titles
Egypt is Africa’s most successful AFCON nation with seven titles.
Fun Fact: Egypt is the only team to win three consecutive AFCON titles (2006, 2008, 2010) and has produced stars like Mohamed Salah and Mahmoud El Khatib.
Conclusion
From Tunisia, Zambia, and Senegal’s inspiring first victories to Egypt’s record seven titles, AFCON history is rich with triumph, resilience, and memorable moments. These nations have not only lifted trophies but also shaped African football culture, inspiring generations of players and fans alike.
