NELSPRUIT, South Africa, Jan 31 (Reuters) - Ivory Coast have emerged as clear favourites as the African Nations Cup enters its knockout stages but if past finals are anything to go by, the tournament remains ripe for more surprises. Following 12 days of intense action across South Africa, half of the 16-team field - including defending champions Zambia - have been eliminated as the event's recent tradition of unpredictability has continued. ... More...