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The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has been the pinnacle of African football since its inception in 1957, showcasing the continent's best talents and producing some of the most unforgettable moments in football history.
While recent finals have often been tight and low-scoring affairs, there have been some spectacular showdowns over the years that have captured the imagination of fans worldwide.
Here, we explore the top five AFCON finals of all time, each remarkable for its drama, skill, and sheer emotion on display.
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19:00 - 08.02.2024
AFCON 2023: Why DR Congo players covered mouths with hands during national anthem at AFCON semi-final
Democratic Republic of Congo players silently protested before their AFCON semi-final match against Ivory Coast.
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17:20 - 08.02.2024
AFCON 2023: ‘I felt at that moment, I was carrying the hope of the nation on my shoulder’ - Iheanacho on last penalty
Kelechi Iheanacho etched his name into the annals of Nigerian football history by scoring the decisive penalty that propelled the Super Eagles past South Africa into the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final.
2017: Cameroon 2-1 Egypt
A thrilling final where Vincent Aboubakar's late goal secured victory for Cameroon. Egypt had taken the lead early on, but Cameroon fought back in the second half, with Nicolas Nkoulou equalizing before Aboubakar's dramatic winner just minutes before the final whistle.
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2000: Nigeria 2-2 Cameroon (Cameroon won 4–3 on penalties)
This final was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Cameroon overcoming a two-goal deficit to draw level, thanks to an incredible strike from Jay-Jay Okocha. The match went to penalties, where Cameroon emerged victorious, breaking Nigerian hearts in Lagos.
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1974: Zaire 2-2 Zambia (Zaire won a replay 2-0)
After a gripping draw that saw Zaire's Ndaye Mulamba and Zambia's Brighton Sinyangwe scoring crucial goals, a replay was necessitated. Zaire dominated the replay, with Mulamba once again proving to be the hero by scoring both goals.
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1972: Congo 3-2 Mali
Regarded by many as the best AFCON final, this match had it all: comebacks, drama, and a showcase of attacking football. Congo came from behind to secure their first AFCON title, overcoming a resilient Mali side in a thrilling encounter.
1965: Ghana 3-2 Tunisia (AET)
Ghana defended their title in a final filled with twists and turns. After trailing, Ghana fought back to take the match to extra time, where Frank Odoi's winner ensured they retained the AFCON crown.
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