AFCON: History, Teams & Stars of African Cup of Nations

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is more than just a football tournament—it’s a celebration of African pride, identity, and sporting excellence organised by CAF. Since its inception in 1957, AFCON has become a vital platform for showcasing the continent’s rich football culture and producing legends who have gone on to conquer the global stage.

A complete history of African cup of Nations

The Africa Cup of Nations began in 1957 with just three teams—Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia. Since then, it has grown into a 24-nation spectacle played every two years, with millions of fans tuning in globally.

Key milestone of the AFCON competition:

1957 : First African cup of Nations was held in Sudan, Egypt emerged as champions.

1992 : This year saw expansion in the number of national teams to 12 countries.

2019 : The tournament was finally moved to June/July from January and the total participating countries was increased to 24.

Greatest African Teams in Tournament History

Egypt : 7 time Africn Cup of Nations champions. They dominated the 2000´s edition of the tournament winning it for three consercutive times (2006, 2008 & 2010).

Cameroon : The Indomitable Lions holds 5 AFCON titles and are known for their physicality, flair and legendary Roger Milla in the 80´s and 90´s.

Ghana : Despite winning their last trophy in 1982, the Black Stars holds 4 African Cup of Nations glory and graced the tournament with many titles.

Nigeria : Super Eages of Nigeria famously known as home of stars in the competition. Nigeria holds 3 AFCON trophies.

Legendary African Players & Their AFCON Moments

Roger Milla

Roger Milla one of Africa’s all-time greats. Known for his flair and iconic goal celebrations. He was instrumental in Cameroon’s AFCON triumphs and famously starred at the 1990 World Cup at age 38. He won two titles.

Regobert Song

Song holds the record as the only player to have made 8 appearances in the African Cup of Nations playing 36 matches. Known for his toughness and leadershio Regobert Song won two trophies.

Samuel Eto’o

He played in 6 edition of the tournament (2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2008 & 2010) and known for his clinical finishing and leadership. Eto’o holds the record as All-time top scorer in the AFCON with 18 goals.

Didier Drogba

The Ivorian international and ex Chelsea striker graced with competition scoring a total of 11 goals and reacing two finals.