Two matchdays done in the Africa Women Cup of Nations in Morocco and things are shaping up nicely.
Outside the football, it has been a colourful fanfare. There has been a variety of goal-celebrating dance moves and some flamboyant hairstyles.
Group A seems all but settled. The hosts have been impressive, garnering six points from two matches. And so has Senegal. They have both qualified for the quarter finals.
It is also fair to put in perspective the fact that Burkina Faso is making its first appearance at the AWCON
And yet, Group B has proven to be the group of death. The teams seem quite evenly-matched, every point keenly fought for. In fact, nothing is certain in the group.
South Africa is through to the knockouts. The Banyana Banyana has proved to be the team to beat with six points. And with the manner with which they defeated the pre-tournament favourites, Nigeria, a place in the final seems just inevitable. It is football, too and anything can happen.
A lot might yet change with the final round of group stage matches slated for this weekend. There is so much to play for.
Preview Of AWCON Matchday 3
The heavyweights of Group A, Morocco and Senegal will face off to determine the outright winner of the group. Midfielder, Ghizlane Chebbak will fancy her chances for the Atlas Lionesses having scored in her first two matches.
Burkina Faso and Uganda who seem already out will battle for maximum points and third place tonight.
Cameroon takes on Tunisia tomorrow night. The West African side is yet to win a match in this AWCON and stand the risk of not advancing. Tunisia, on the other hand, needs at least a point to progress.
Zambia tops Group B with four points and will face Togo on Saturday. The Sparrowhawks can secure a place in the next stage with a win. Hence, this looks set to produce fireworks.
Nigeria will be confident when they face Burundi on Sunday night. The Falcons have barely convinced. However, the odds are in their favour against the African minnows. Rashidat Ajibade has perhaps been the team’s most dangerous outlet with Asisat oshoala injured.
South Africa will be desperate to seal top spot and avoid complexities with a win against Botswana.
Predictions For AWCON Matchday 3
Morocco vs Senegal (goal/goal)
Burkina Faso vs Uganda (over 1.5 goals)
Cameroon vs Tunisia (over 2.5 goals)
Zambia vs Togo (1)
Nigeria vs Burundi (1)
South Africa vs Botswana (1)
