The race for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco intensified with pivotal matches played on the fifth day of qualifiers. Several teams secured their spots in the finals, while others, including Ghana, saw their hopes dashed in dramatic fashion.
South Africa claimed a 2-0 victory over Uganda in Kampala, with goals from Morena and Patrick securing the win in Group K.
Both teams had already sealed their places in the tournament before this encounter, making the match a contest for pride and momentum heading into Morocco.
In Group C, Botswana were held to a 1-1 draw at home against Mauritania.
Meanwhile, Cape Verde played out a 1-1 draw against already-qualified Egypt.
Botswana’s seven points place them second in the group, while Mauritania and Cape Verde, both with four points, remain in contention for the second qualifying spot.
The final round will determine who joins Egypt in the finals.
Mali solidified their position at the top of Group I with a 1-0 win over Mozambique, courtesy of a decisive performance by Yves Bissouma and his teammates.
Despite the loss, Mozambique secured their qualification with eight points, as Guinea-Bissau could only manage a 1-1 draw against Eswatini.
Zambia booked their ticket to Morocco with a narrow 1-0 victory over Ivory Coast in Group G.
The defeat marked a second consecutive loss for the Elephants, who relinquished the group’s top spot to the Chipolopolo.
In Group J, Zimbabwe, already qualified, drew 1-1 at home with Kenya.
Comoros celebrated a historic moment by defeating Gambia 2-1, earning their place in the finals.
The day’s biggest shock came in Group E, where Ghana’s 1-1 draw against Angola confirmed their elimination from the competition.
The Black Stars, traditionally a powerhouse in African football, failed to capitalize on their opportunities and will miss out on the tournament.
Full results
- Botswana 1–1 Mauritania
- Uganda 0–2 South Africa
- Cape Verde 1–1 Egypt
- Eswatini 1–1 Guinea-Bissau
- Mozambique 0–1 Mali
- Zambia 1–0 Ivory Coast
- Zimbabwe 1–1 Kenya
- Angola 1–1 Ghana
- Gabon 1–5 Morocco
- Gambia 1–2 Comoros
As the qualifiers near their conclusion, the competition for the remaining spots intensifies, with several teams set for a decisive final round.
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