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Afolabi Ezekiel - December 7, 2025
Group E blends tradition, physical strength, tactical discipline, and unpredictable football. Algeria enters with one of the strongest squads in the tournament and are expected to mount a serious challenge for the title. Burkina Faso, meanwhile, bring unity and relentless intensity, qualities capable of troubling any opponent. Equatorial Guinea continues to exceed expectations with their disciplined approach, while Sudan relies on determination and collective effort to stay competitive. With so many contrasting strengths, the battle for second place is set to be fiercely contested.
Algeria enter the tournament with confidence, depth, and a squad filled with experienced performers. Riyad Mahrez remains the center of their attack, using his sharp dribbling, intelligent passing, and calm finishing to create danger. He is supported by players such as Youcef Belaïli and Islam Slimani, who add creativity and scoring ability.
Their midfield, led by Ismaël Bennacer, controls the tempo with patience and accurate distribution. Defensively, Aïssa Mandi and Ramy Bensebaini provide organization and stability, allowing Algeria to dominate possession without losing balance. If Algeria remain focused and maintain consistency, they should comfortably finish top of the group and continue as one of the leading contenders for the title.
Burkina Faso arrive with a hardworking, physically strong, and fully committed group. Their identity is built around unity rather than individual stars, although players such as Bertrand Traoré and Edmond Tapsoba provide leadership and high quality in key areas.
Their defense is well structured, and their midfielders excel in breaking up play before launching quick transitions. Burkina Faso often grow stronger as tournaments progress, and their fighting spirit makes them a difficult opponent for any team. They will see themselves as genuine candidates for second place. If they keep their intensity high and remain disciplined, they have every chance of advancing to the knockout stage.
Equatorial Guinea remain one of Africa’s most unpredictable teams. Their strength lies in patience, organization, and defensive teamwork. Players such as Emilio Nsue and Pablo Ganet help them remain compact and disciplined, forcing opponents to work hard for chances.
When they win the ball, they attack quickly. Their counterattacks are sharp, often catching teams by surprise. They may not dominate possession, but they manage transitions well and take advantage of mistakes. If they remain focused and clinical on the break, Equatorial Guinea can challenge Burkina Faso for second place and cause problems for any opponent.
Sudan enter the group as the underdog, but they have qualities that keep them competitive. Their players work hard for each other, defend with commitment, and show resilience when under pressure. Key players such as Yasin Hamed and Mohamed Abdelrahman bring energy and spirit in tight matches.
Sudan usually begins with a cautious approach, staying compact and waiting for counterattacking opportunities. When they remain organized and communicate well, they can limit damage and create surprise chances of their own. Their biggest challenge will be maintaining focus for the entire match. If they avoid costly mistakes, they can influence the standings even if qualification remains difficult.
Group E is led by a strong Algerian team expected to finish top. Burkina Faso have the intensity and organization to secure second place. Equatorial Guinea will rely on structure and counterattacking, while Sudan aims to compete through teamwork and determination. The battle for the second qualifying spot is likely to be tight and unpredictable.
