Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying: Cote d’Ivoire, DR Congo and Senegal impress

The third round of Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying began with a series of convincing results on Thursday, as Ghana recovered from two defeats, the Democratic Republic of Congo maintained their perfect record and Senegal recorded a emphatic victory.

Ghana finally opened their campaign with a 2-0 win over Somalia. The Black Stars had lost their first two matches and needed a response, with the result providing their first points and a boost in Group C.

Cote d’Ivoire also continued their winning start by beating Gambia 2-1. The match brought together two sides who had both won their opening two fixtures, but Cote d’Ivoire preserved their 100% record.

The Democratic Republic of Congo were equally impressive in Group E, defeating Sierra Leone 3-1 to remain at the top of the section. Their result extended a flawless start to the qualifying campaign.

Equatorial Guinea and Zimbabwe shared the points after a goalless draw in the other Group E fixture. Guinea secured a 2-1 victory against Eritrea, while Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau drew 1-1.

Senegal strengthened their position in Group J with a commanding 4-1 win over Sudan. The Lions of Teranga were among the evening’s biggest winners and remain well placed in the group.

Benin also claimed a 4-1 success, overcoming Central African Republic, while Cameroon beat Namibia 2-0.

Thursday’s results

– Ghana 2-0 Somalia – Guinea 2-1 Eritrea – Equatorial Guinea 0-0 Zimbabwe – Madagascar 1-1 Guinea-Bissau – Democratic Republic of Congo 3-1 Sierra Leone – Benin 4-1 Central African Republic – Cameroon 2-0 Namibia – Cote d’Ivoire 2-1 Gambia – Senegal 4-1 Sudan

The qualifying campaign continues on Friday, with Zambia facing Burundi, Tunisia meeting Libya, South Africa taking on Kenya and Mali playing Rwanda.