2013 Africa Cup of Nations

Format and venues

Sixteen national teams competed in a month-long event. The format featured a group stage of four groups with four teams each; the two highest-placed teams from every group advanced to the knockout rounds. Matches were played across multiple stadiums in the host country, using established venues and infrastructure that South Africa had developed for international tournaments.

Qualification and participants

As host, South Africa automatically qualified. The remaining teams earned their places through regional qualifying matches arranged by the continental confederation. The tournament brought together established continental powers alongside nations that had risen through recent qualifying campaigns, creating a mix of traditional contenders and developing sides.

Results and notable outcomes

The final saw Nigeria defeat Burkina Faso 1–0 to claim the title. Mali finished third after winning the consolation match. Nigeria's victory granted its national team the right to represent Africa at the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup, a short tournament that assembles continental champions as part of FIFA's event cycle.

Legacy and significance

This edition is remembered for its scheduling shift and for being the second time South Africa hosted the competition, reflecting the country's continuing role in African football. The move to odd years has persisted, altering how continental and global tournaments are coordinated. Beyond medals, the event influenced player exposure, commercial partnerships, and the planning of future African competitions.

Further notes

• Organization and governance were provided by the CAF, which continues to oversee qualification and tournament operations.
• The tournament forms part of a long-running continental championship, the AFCON, which remains a key stage for African national teams.
• Host selection and legacy issues, including venue upgrades and local economic impact, were widely discussed after the event in South Africa.

For readers seeking match-by-match details, player statistics, or venue lists, consult official reports and archives maintained by the competition organizers and national associations.