Prediction: Morocco win
Best Odds:
Bookmaker:
The Africa Cup of Nations is slowly progressing into the latter stages of the tournament now, as countries from all across the continent attempt to push themselves to the limit in the name of being called the Champions of Africa. Today we re going to be taking a look at the imminent clash between Morocco and South Africa, which should be a pretty intriguing encounter. If, for nothing else, because of the history that these two nations share in regards to the hosting controversy surrounding the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
South Africa
The 2010 FIFA World Cup was a long time ago, when SA hosted the tournament in their own backyard. Ever since then it s felt like they ve been on something of a gradual decline which, naturally, hasn t been easy to watch for their loyal fans. Even with that being the case, though, it always feels like they re one or two big superstars away from really making an impact in the African market. In terms of this tournament, though, they just need to try and piece together some moments of magic if they want to stand any chance of making it into the later stages.
Team News
Dean Furman will be hoping to return after a knee problem ruled him out of the Namibia game, but there shouldn t be all too many changes aside from that.
Morocco
Morocco seem to be firing on all cylinders right now, to the point where you could certainly make an argument for them being dark horses in this tournament. They look solid at the back, they have a few really key match winners, and they just seem to be capable of staying in any given game no matter how dire the situation seems. They re the favourites to win this game for a reason, because regardless of what side they put out, it s just difficult to look past them given their strength in depth.
Team News
Morocco may rest some star players in favour of being fully fit for the knockout stages.
Factors to Consider
Morocco lead 2-1 in the overall head to head standings with three draws.
South Africa have won one and lost one of their AFCON group stage games.
Morocco have won both of their AFCON group stage games.
South Africa s best AFCON result was when they won the tournament in 1996.
Morocco s best AFCON result was when they won the tournament in 1976.
Conclusion
South Africa are going to be throwing everything against the wall in order to see what sticks, but in the end, we just don t think that s going to be enough for them to secure the win. Morocco are playing some great stuff right now and even though they may have a weakened side, we still feel as if they re going to have enough to edge themselves past South Africa. It may not be the prettiest game we see at the tournament, but if Morocco can make it three wins from three, it ll certainly be a big statement to make.
Prediction: Morocco win
Best Odds:
Bookmaker:
