2017 Africa Cup of Nations: Full Group-Stage Draw, Fixtures and Dates Released

Holders Ivory Coast will face former manager Herve Renard in the group stages of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon, which were drawn on Wednesday.

Renard, now in charge of Morocco, led Ivory Coast to glory two years ago, ending the nation’s 23-year wait for a second AFCON title. The champions will also face DR Congo and Togo in Group C.

The Elephants triumphed against Ghana in Equatorial Guinea in 2015 after a thrilling penalty shootout. Michel Dussuyer’s side are among the big favourites for victory again in Gabon, although competition will be fierce. 

Here’s a look at the draw in full, courtesy of the CAF Twitter feed:

Final result of the draw. What are your country’s chances of being Champions? #AFCON2017 pic.twitter.com/K5GtiowTfd

— CAF (@CAF_Online) October 19, 2016

Below are the opening group-stage fixtures, while the schedule in full can be found on the CAF website:

Given the tournament will run during January and February, it means key players from various European clubs will miss sections of the domestic season.

Bleacher Report UK broke down the stars that will be absent from the Premier League as they get set to take part:

Host nation Gabon will feel as though they have a decent draw overall and will …

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