Bafana Bafana enjoyed a transformative run, securing an impressive third-place finish - their first AFCON medal since 2000.

After a shaky start (a 2-0 loss to Mali), they regrouped with a commanding 4-0 win over Namibia and a disciplined draw against Tunisia to advance as group runners-up.

Their tactical discipline, led by coach Hugo Broos, peaked with a shocking 2-0 victory over tournament favourites Morocco in the Round of 16.

Goalkeeper and captain Ronwen Williams became a national hero, setting an AFCON record by saving four penalties in their quarter-final shootout win against Cape Verde.

Though their journey ended in a heartbreaking semi-final penalty loss to Nigeria, they ultimately defeated DR Congo in another tense penalty shootout to claim the bronze medal.

The 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, hosted by Ivory Coast and held in early 2024, delivered a thrilling spectacle crowned by one of the most remarkable underdog victories in tournament history.

The host nation, 'The Elephants,' endured a turbulent group stage, suffering a humiliating 4-0 defeat to Equatorial Guinea and barely scraping through to the knockout rounds as the last of the four best third-placed teams.

This led to the sacking of their head coach, Jean-Louis Gasset, a drastic move that ultimately catalysed an incredible turnaround under interim coach Emerse Fae.

Ivory Coast's path to the final was filled with drama and resilience, including a penalty shootout win against defending champions Senegal and a last-gasp extra-time victory against Mali. They faced three-time champions Nigeria in the final, a rematch of a 1-0 group stage loss.

In the final, the Elephants came from behind to defeat the Super Eagles 2-1. Goals from Franck Kessie and a memorable winner from cancer survivor Sebastien Haller secured their third continental title and made them the first host nation to win the trophy since 2006.

The tournament was also defined by the depth of African football, with several upsets, including the early exits of giants like Algeria, Ghana, and Tunisia.

Equatorial Guinea's Emilio Nsue surprisingly claimed the Golden Boot with five goals, while Nigeria's captain, William Troost-Ekong, was named Best Player.

The 2025 tournament will take place from 21 December to 18 January.

Steve Barker in awe of current Stellenbosch squad