The drums are beating, the vuvuzelas are buzzing, and the continent of Africa is buzzing with anticipation – the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is here! This prestigious tournament, showcasing the crème de la crème of African football, promises a month of electrifying matches, passionate rivalries, and unforgettable moments.
Whether you’re a seasoned AFCON aficionado or a first-time viewer, navigating the complexities of live streams, TV channels, and schedules can be daunting. But fear not, football fans! This comprehensive guide is your roadmap to experiencing the full AFCON glory, no matter where you are in the world.
Where to Watch AFCON 2023?
Gone are the days of scrambling for cable connections. In the age of streaming, catching the AFCON action is easier than ever. Here’s a breakdown of your options, depending on your location:
- North America: beIN Sports is the official broadcaster, bringing you every single match live. Cord-cutters, rejoice! FuboTV offers the most budget-friendly access, with a 7-day free trial to kick things off. Don’t miss out on the electrifying clashes between Senegal’s Mané and Algeria’s Mahrez, all from the comfort of your couch.
- Canada: Our friends north of the border can also join the beIN Sports party through Fubo Canada. Witness the likes of Canada’s David and Davies light up the pitch alongside continental powerhouses.
- United Kingdom: The Brits have a split-screen experience. Sky Sports will show all 52 matches, catering to die-hard fans who want to soak in every minute of the action. For those who prefer a curated selection, BBC will air 10 select matches, including the opening ceremony, the final, and some group stage clashes. Stream it all via Sky Go/Now TV or BBC iPlayer. Imagine witnessing the opening match fireworks between host nation Ivory Coast and Guinea-Bissau, all for free on the BBC!
- Australia: Down under, beIN Sports once again reigns supreme, offering both broadcast and streaming coverage. So grab a shrimp on the barbie and settle in for some top-notch African football.
- India: Calling all Indian football fans! FanCode is your one-stop shop for all things AFCON. Stream every match, analyze expert commentary, and join the online fan community – all from the comfort of your smartphone.
Free-to-Air Fiesta:
Feeling lucky? South African broadcaster SABC offers a free live stream of all matches, accessible from anywhere in the world. Just a small caveat – you’ll need a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions if you’re outside South Africa. But hey, free football is free football, right?
TV Titans
For traditionalists who prefer the big-screen experience, check your local TV listings for channels carrying AFCON coverage. This is especially true if you’re in Africa or a country with strong ties to the tournament. In Ghana, for example, GTV Sports Plus will be broadcasting all the matches, while Nigeria’s AIT and NTA Sports will bring the action live to your living room.
Tournament Format and Schedule
Staying organized is key to maximizing your AFCON enjoyment. Bookmark or download the official AFCON schedule, available online or through various apps. Here are some key dates to etch in your memory:
- Tournament Kick-off: January 13th, 2024
- Grand Finale: February 11th, 2024
- Group Stage: Mark the dates for your favorite teams’ matches and keep an eye out for potential group-deciding clashes.
- Knockout Rounds: As the tournament progresses, the tension rises! Don’t miss out on the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the nail-biting final, where the ultimate champion will be crowned.
All Time In The Schedule are in GMT
- MONDAY 22 JANUARY 2024
- Group A: Equatorial Guinea vs Ivory Coast (17:00)
- Group A: Guinea-Bissau vs Nigeria (17:00)
- Group B: Cape Verde vs Egypt (20:00)
- Group B: Mozambique vs Ghana (20:00)
- TUESDAY 23 JANUARY 2024
- Group C: The Gambia vs Cameroon (17:00)
- Group C: Guinea vs Senegal (17:00)
- Group D: Angola vs Burkina Faso (20:00)
- Group D: Mauritania vs Algeria (20:00)
- WEDNESDAY 24 JANUARY 2024
- Group E: Namibia vs Mali (17:00)
- Group E: South Africa vs Tunisia (17:00)
- Group F: Tanzania vs DR Congo (20:00)
- Group F: Zambia vs Morocco (20:00)
Bonus Tips for the Superfan:
- Social Media Buzz: Follow the official AFCON accounts and your favorite teams on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram. Get live updates, match highlights, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the players and their journeys.
- Mobile Magic: Download the official AFCON app for live scores, news, match schedules, and even player profiles. Stay informed and connected on the go, no matter where you are.
- Gather Your Crew: Make it a party! Invite friends and family over to watch the matches together. Share the excitement, the cheers, and maybe even
