6 Countries That Hosted and Conquered AFCON as Ivory Coast Beat Nigeria

In African football, hosting a major tournament often grants a significant advantage, as numerous countries have seized the opportunity to secure victory on home turf.

The Elephants of Cote d'Ivoire joined the ranks of nations that have successfully hosted and won the AFCON.

In a thrilling final showdown against Nigeria in Abidjan on Sunday evening, the Ivorians staged a remarkable comeback, clinching a 2-1 victory after William Troost-Ekong initially gave the Super Eagles the lead in the first half.

In light of this achievement, Sports Brief delves into six African countries that have not only hosted but also triumphed in major football tournaments, particularly the AFCON, highlighting their footballing prowess and the profound impact of home support.

AFCON hosts who seized the crown

On three separate occasions, Egypt has capitalised on the advantage of playing on home turf to secure victory in the AFCON. Their first triumph at home occurred in 1959, which they followed up with wins in 1986 and 2006.

The 2006 victory holds a special place in Egyptian football history, marked by a memorable final against Ivory Coast that culminated in a tense penalty shootout.

2. Ghana - 1963 AFCON

Ghana served as host and emerged triumphant in the AFCON in 1963, securing their maiden title in the tournament's history.

The Black Stars showcased their burgeoning talent and unwavering passion for football by defeating Sudan 3-0 in the final, leaving an indelible mark on the tournament.

This victory not only signified Ghana's arrival on the continental football stage but also laid the foundation for future successes in African football.

3. Ethiopia - 1962 AFCON

Ethiopia clinched their inaugural and sole AFCON title in 1962 while hosting the tournament.

In a thrilling final showdown against Egypt, Ethiopia emerged victorious with a 4-2 triumph after extra time, etching their name in the annals of African football history.

This historic victory represented a significant milestone for Ethiopian football, underscoring the nation's rich footballing culture and storied history.

4. Nigeria - 1980 AFCON

In a historic moment for Nigerian football, the nation served as host and emerged victorious in the AFCON in 1980, securing their maiden championship in the tournament's history.

The Super Eagles delivered a commanding performance in the final, overpowering Algeria with a resounding 3-0 triumph.

It laid the foundation for Nigeria's continued success and dominance in African football, shaping the nation's footballing identity and leaving an indelible mark on its sporting history.

5. Algeria - 1990 AFCON

On this day Egypt won AFCON 2010 to extend record 19-match unbeaten streak in the Africa Cup of Nations

Football

Algeria clinched their inaugural AFCON title in 1990, capitalising on the opportunity of hosting the tournament.

The Desert Foxes secured a hard-fought victory in the final against Nigeria, emerging triumphant with a narrow 1-0 scoreline.

This significant achievement underscored Algeria's strength as a footballing nation, with the team showcasing a formidable performance throughout the tournament.

6. South Africa - 1996 AFCON

South Africa hosted and triumphed in the AFCON in 1996, marking a pivotal moment following the end of apartheid and the country's return to international football.

Bafana Bafana secured a memorable victory in the final, defeating Tunisia with a decisive 2-0 scoreline.

This historic win carried profound significance for South Africa, symbolising the nation's journey towards unity and reconciliation through the power of sport.

Five records broken at AFCON in Ivory Coast

Sports Brief also previously reported how records were broken at AFCON 2023, following the conclusion of the tournament in Ivory Coast.

The Elephants asserted their dominance by triumphing over the Super Eagles of Nigeria 2-1 in the final, securing their third continental title and the accompanying bragging rights.