- Egypt leads Africa with seven AFCON titles, showcasing unmatched consistency and tactical strength.
- Cameroon and Ghana follow with five and four AFCON victories, cementing their elite status.
- Ivory Coast and Nigeria each hold three titles, blending domestic talent and European-based stars.
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) stands as the continent’s premier football tournament, showcasing the skill, passion, and diversity of African nations since its inception in 1957.
Held every two years, AFCON has grown from a modest competition among three countries to a continental spectacle featuring 24 teams.
From Egypt’s record seven titles to the heroic triumphs of Zambia and Algeria, the tournament has produced unforgettable moments that have shaped Africa’s sporting identity.
African countries bring unique styles and fervent support to AFCON. West African giants like Nigeria, Ghana, and Ivory Coast are perennial favorites, blending European-based stars with homegrown talent.
North African powerhouses Egypt, Algeria, and Tunisia have long demonstrated tactical discipline and flair. Southern and Central African nations, including Cameroon, DR Congo, and South Africa, have also left their mark, proving that AFCON’s unpredictability is part of its enduring appeal.
Over more than six decades, AFCON has produced unforgettable moments—last-minute winners, record-breaking triumphs, and dazzling displays of skill that have defined generations.
From Egypt’s unmatched seven titles to Cameroon’s fierce legacy and Nigeria’s dynamic Super Eagles, the tournament showcases the depth and passion of African football.
Legendary players like Samuel Eto’o, Didier Drogba, Mohamed Aboutrika, and Yaya Touré have all graced this stage, inspiring countless young talents across the continent.
In this article, Shore Africa explores the top 10 countries with the most Africa Cup of Nations titles. Whether you’re a seasoned football enthusiast or new to the beautiful game, this guide will offer fresh insights into the nations that have shaped AFCON’s remarkable story.
1. Egypt – 7 titles
Winners in 1957, 1959, 1986, 1998, 2006, 2008, 2010.
Brief details: Egypt dominates AFCON history with seven titles. The Pharaohs won the first two editions (1957, 1959) and achieved an unprecedented hat-trick in 2006, 2008, and 2010. Their consistent success is built on strong local leagues and legendary players like Mohamed Aboutrika and Mahmoud El Khatib. Egypt’s tactical discipline and passionate fan base have cemented their status as Africa’s most successful national football team.
2. Cameroon – 5 titles
Victories in 1984, 1988, 2000, 2002, 2017
Brief details: Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions have claimed five AFCON trophies, winning in 1984, 1988, 2000, 2002, and 2017. The country is renowned for producing global stars like Roger Milla and Samuel Eto’o. Cameroon combines athleticism with an attacking style, often overpowering opponents with pace and strength. Their 2000 and 2002 back-to-back titles showcased their golden generation and solidified their place among Africa’s football elite.
3. Ghana – 4 titles
Champions in 1963, 1965, 1978, 1982
Brief details: Ghana’s Black Stars lifted the AFCON four times: 1963, 1965, 1978, and 1982. Renowned for their technical flair and tactical organization, Ghana dominated early tournaments. Legendary players such as Abedi Pele and Asamoah Gyan inspired generations. Despite reaching several finals in recent decades, the team has struggled to secure a fifth title. Ghana remains a continental powerhouse with a rich footballing tradition.
4. Ivory Coast – 3 titles
Triumphs in 1992, 2015, 2023
Brief details: Ivory Coast, known as the Elephants, have three AFCON titles: 1992, 2015, and 2023. The 1992 final was won in a dramatic 11–10 penalty shootout. The Didier Drogba-led generation came close in 2006 and 2012 before triumphing in 2015. The 2023 title reaffirmed their stature. Ivory Coast boasts immense talent and depth, consistently fielding squads featuring Europe-based stars and solid domestic players.
5. Nigeria – 3 titles
Winners in 1980, 1994, 2013
Brief details: Nigeria’s Super Eagles captured AFCON crowns in 1980, 1994, and 2013. Known for dynamic attacking football, they’ve produced icons like Rashidi Yekini, Jay-Jay Okocha, and Nwankwo Kanu. Nigeria frequently finishes among the top teams and has qualified for multiple World Cups. The 2013 triumph under Stephen Keshi ended a 19-year wait. Nigeria’s passionate supporters make them a perennial tournament favorite.
6. Algeria – 2 titles
Champions in 1990, 2019
Brief details: Algeria lifted the AFCON twice: at home in 1990 and again in 2019. The 2019 team, led by Riyad Mahrez, impressed with stylish, high-tempo football, defeating Senegal in the final. Algeria’s tactical flexibility and technical players have earned them respect across Africa. Despite periods of inconsistency, the Desert Foxes remain a formidable force, blending domestic talent and Europe-based stars.
7. DR Congo – 2 titles
Victories in 1968, 1974
Brief details: DR Congo won AFCON as Congo-Kinshasa in 1968 and again in 1974. Their early successes showcased strong, physical play and tactical discipline. The nation, with a deep football culture, has consistently produced gifted players like Shabani Nonda and Yannick Bolasie. Though they’ve struggled to regain past glory, DR Congo often reach knockout stages and remain a respected competitor in African football.
8. Zambia – 1 title
Champions in 2012
Brief details: Zambia achieved a fairytale victory in 2012, defeating Ivory Coast in a tense penalty shootout. The title was especially emotional, honoring the 1993 team lost in a tragic plane crash. Under coach Hervé Renard, the Chipolopolo displayed resilience and teamwork. Star striker Christopher Katongo inspired the campaign. Zambia’s triumph remains one of AFCON’s most inspiring stories, symbolizing hope and national pride.
9. Tunisia – 1 title
Victors in 2004
Brief details: Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles won their sole AFCON in 2004 on home soil, defeating Morocco in the final. The team blended tactical discipline with flair, anchored by influential players like Ziad Jaziri and Radhi Jaïdi. Tunisia has a consistent record of qualifying for the tournament and often advances past the group stages. Their 2004 title was a landmark achievement celebrated across the nation.
10. Sudan – 1 title
Winners in 1970
Brief details: Sudan won the AFCON in 1970, hosting the tournament and defeating Ghana 1–0 in the final. Their victory marked the golden era of Sudanese football, with players like Nasr El-Din Abbas among the standouts. Since then, Sudan has struggled to replicate similar success, but their early contributions helped shape African football history. The 1970 title remains a proud achievement in Sudanese sport.
