AFCON 2021 predictions: Senegal, Morocco and Gabon hope to qualify

The dam holding back the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations is finally open.

After 12 goals in the first 12 games, and nine 1-0’s in the first round of group stage games, on Thursday hosts Cameroon won 4-1 against Ethiopia - is this a sign for things going forward in the worst scoring AFCON so far?

It will be interesting to see if teams that were stressed and rigid in the first round, will now find their feet and begin to express themselves. Welcome to AFCON Day 6!

Important note: These predictions are only suggestions, and BabaGol is not responsible for the consequences. The use of these suggestions is the responsibility of the reader and user themselves.

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Some interesting matches today 🤩#AFCON2021 #TotalEnergiesAFCON pic.twitter.com/2N9bmZErkG
— BabaGol (@BabaGol_) January 14, 2022

Senegal v Guinea, 14:00 CET, Stade Kouekong, Bafousam

The Teranga Lions and the Sily Nationale won their first games in this tournament by a whisker, and in both matches Liverpool players made the difference. Sadio Mané and Naby Keita were the key players in their national teams’ opening day winners, and will hope to lead their teams to a lucrative victory, putting them on the verge of a last 16 spot as a result.

BabaGol’s Prediction: This game could go anywhere. Despite all the talent on the field, it might be a tough game to watch. Senegal will continue to win, but expect Guinea to go home with the neutral fan’s hearts.

Bet365 prediction: Senegal 1.95 | Draw 3.00 | Guinea 4.75

Malawi v Zimbabwe, 17:00 CET, Stade Kouekong, Bafousam

A clash of matchday one’s broken hearts has the potential to create a historical moment for Malawi. They could secure their first-ever AFCON win, or even their first AFCON goal, against Zimbabwe. But that won’t be easy. Knowledge Musona’s Zimbabwe will hope to keep their chances of qualifying for the knockout stages alive, or at least keep hold of some continental pride.

BabaGol’s Prediction: Malawi will have to hold their nerve, and will score, but Zimbabwe will take home the three points.

Bet365 prediction: Malawi 3.40 | Draw 2.80 | Zimbabwe 2.50

In Africa, dancing is life. 🕺♥️#TotalEnergiesAFCON2021 | #AFCON2021 pic.twitter.com/Ci7o9OV1gH
— #TotalEnergiesAFCON2021 🏆 (@CAF_Online) January 13, 2022

Morocco v Comoros, 17:00 CET, Stade Ahmado Ahidjou, Yaoundé

Morocco started the competition with a dramatic victory against Ghana, and now needs to finish the job. With Youssef En-Nesiry and Ayoub Al Kaabi set to return to Vahid Halilodžić’s squad, the Atlas Lions will look to make this a statement victory. Comoros on the other hand, will be happy with the experience of playing one of the most talented sides in the continent.

BabaGol’s Prediction: God, the nation, the king, and the victory, belongs to Morocco.

Bet365 prediction: Morocco 1.20 | Draw 5.75 | Comoros 21.00

Gabon v Ghana, 20:00 CET, Stade Ahmado Ahidjou, Yaoundé

A massive match in Group C. Gabon, who beat Comoros 1-0 thanks to a fantastic goal by Aaron Boupendza, will get captain Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang back after his positive Covid-19 test, and will be hoping to guarantee their spot in the knockout stages.

Ghana will be hoping to recover after their loss to Morocco, and will need to find a balance between new blood and veterans. Kamaledeen Sulemana and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku will aim to shine together and give the Black Stars a new hope, otherwise this AFCON will be remembered as nothing but a disaster.

BabaGol’s prediction: It’s a big game for Ghana, and the danger of elimination is real. Ghana will win.

Bet365 prediction: Gabon 5.50 | Draw 2.80 | 1.95