By Biwah BryanThe 2023 AFCON second-group matches exceeded expectations, with teams adjusting their strategies to match the intensity of the competition.A total of 38 goals were scored in 12 matches, resulting in 7 victories, 5 draws, and 7 defeats with over 32 yellow cards and 1 red card.Senegal and Cape Verde finished their second group matches already qualifying for the knockout stage with 6 points each in their respective groups.Cape Verde was the first team to advance to the knockout stage after beating Mozambique 3-0 while the defending champions, Senegal secured their spot with a 3-1 win over Cameroon.In a surprising turn of events, the Atlas Lions of Morocco ended their match in a 1-1 draw against DR Congo, while Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, and Ghana failed to secure a win.The second group matches concluded with a thrilling 4-0 victory for South Africa over Namibia.The third and final group stage matches will commence on Monday, January 22 with the following fixtures.Cote d'Ivoire vs Equ atorial GuineaGuinea vs NigeriaCape Verde vs EgyptMozambique vs GhanaSource: Cameroon News Agency