AFCON 2027 qualifiers: Botswana held to draw by Libya after late penalty

Botswana were held to a 2-2 draw by Libya in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match in Group H at the Tripoli International Stadium.

Tumisang Orebonye scored twice in the first half to put Botswana in control, but Maruwan Alhibeeshi pulled one back before Ezoo El Mariamy converted a stoppage-time penalty to rescue a point for Libya.

Orebonye puts Botswana in control

Botswana took the lead in the 30th minute when Orebonye finished after being assisted by Thatayaone Kgamanyane.

The forward doubled Botswana’s advantage eight minutes before half-time, with Tebogo Kopelang providing the assist.

Libya reduced the deficit in the 87th minute when Maruwan Alhibeeshi found the net following an assist from Ezoo El Mariamy.

The hosts then completed their comeback deep into stoppage time.

In the sixth minute of added time, Libya were awarded a penalty, with El Mariamy stepping up to convert and make it 2-2.

Botswana face Tunisia next

The draw means Botswana will now turn their attention to their second Group H match against Tunisia on September 28.

Libya will also be back in action, with Uganda their next opponents.