AFCON 2015 Qualifiers: Final Stretch Promises Drama Across the Continent
16 November 2014 – BBC Africa Sport
With the controversy over hosting rights for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) now settled, attention turns to the pitch as the penultimate round of qualifiers reaches its climax. Twelve crucial matches will take place across the continent between Friday and Saturday, as nations vie for their spot in January’s finals in Equatorial Guinea.
High Stakes in Cairo and Kampala
In Group G, Egypt face a must-win scenario against Senegal at the Cairo International Stadium, where over 20,000 fans are expected to rally behind the Pharaohs. Senegal, still reeling from a recent loss to Tunisia, are under pressure to respond. Tunisia, meanwhile, became the first team from the group to qualify after a goalless draw against Botswana on Friday.
Elsewhere in Group E, Kampala will host a crucial clash between Uganda and group leaders Ghana. A draw would keep Uganda’s hopes alive, but a win is vital to keep control of their destiny. Togo and Guinea, also in Group E, meet in Lomé in what is essentially a knockout encounter. A win for either team keeps them in contention, while defeat will likely end their AFCON dream. If Togo win and Uganda only draw, both Togo and Ghana would qualify automatically.
Ivory Coast Rebounds, Pressure on DR Congo
Group D remains tightly contested. Ivory Coast reignited their campaign with a dominant 5–1 victory over Sierra Leone, relieving some of the pressure on coach Hervé Renard. DR Congo, who travel to Yaoundé to face Cameroon, must now rise to the occasion to keep their qualification hopes intact.
Gabon, Zambia, and Burkina Faso Close In
In Group C, Gabon need just a single point away to Angola to secure their place, despite being without star strikers Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Malick Evouna. Burkina Faso, already in strong position, could seal qualification with a positive result in Lesotho.
Zambia, in Group F, are focused on finishing second behind already-qualified Cape Verde. The Chipolopolo travel to Mozambique, needing victory to strengthen their claim. Cape Verde, meanwhile, face Niger in Praia, looking to finish the campaign unbeaten.
Defending Champions Nigeria Under Threat
The reigning AFCON champions, Nigeria, face an uphill task in Group A. The Super Eagles must win their final two games to stand a chance of defending their title. First up is a daunting trip to Congo. South Africa, leaders of the group, will look to maintain their advantage with a home match against Sudan.
Algeria and Tunisia Already Through, Mali Still Fighting
Algeria, one of the tournament favourites, have already secured qualification from Group B and will host Ethiopia in Blida. Mali, however, must win away in Malawi to remain in contention, with the group’s second ticket still up for grabs.
As the qualifiers enter the final stretch, every goal, every point, and every tactical decision will matter. With so much still at stake, African football fans are in for a thrilling weekend of action.
