To set the stage, here are five remarkable AFCON records that showcase the tournament’s rich history and enduring legacy:

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Most titles: Egypt – 7

The Pharaohs remain the most successful nation in AFCON history with seven triumphs (1957, 1959, 1986, 1998, 2006, 2008, 2010), including an unprecedented three in a row between 2006 and 2010 under Hassan Shehata. Egypt haven’t won it since 2010, but they still hold a clear lead over the chasing pack.

Second most titles: Cameroon – 5

The Indomitable Lions sit alone in second place with five crowns (1984, 1988, 2000, 2002, 2017). Remarkably, they have reached nine finals in total, giving them one of the best win ratios among the traditional powerhouses.

Most successful coaches: Charles Gyamfi and Hassan Shehata – 3 titles each

Two African coaching legends share the record. Ghana’s Charles Gyamfi won in 1963, 1965 and 1982, while Egypt’s Hassan Shehata is the only man to win three consecutive tournaments (2006, 2008, 2010). No coach has lifted the trophy more times.

All-time leading goalscorer: Samuel Eto’o (Cameroon) – 18 goals

The iconic Samuel Eto’o still reigns supreme, scoring 18 goals in 29 AFCON appearances across six tournaments (2000-2010). The former Barcelona and Chelsea striker participated in four finals and won two of them (2000 and 2002).

Most goals in a single tournament: 9 – Ndaye Mulamba (DR Congo, 1974)

During the 1974 edition in Egypt, Zaire’s (now DR Congo) Pierre Ndaye Mulamba scored nine goals in six matches – including four in the semi-final against Zambia – to fire his country to their second and most recent AFCON title.