AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Eritrea win first match after 18 years in the wilderness

Eritrea marked a historic return to competitive action with a 2-0 victory over Eswatini in their opening match of the Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifiers.

Led by coach Hesham Yakan, the Eritrean side showed determination and resilience in a tightly contested encounter.

Despite a lively start, they found it difficult to break down a disciplined Eswatini defence that remained compact and organised for much of the game.

For over 80 minutes, Eritrea pushed forward without success, as Sulieman and his teammates struggled to find a way through. Their persistence, however, finally paid off late in the match.

The breakthrough came in the 83rd minute when a well-delivered corner caused confusion in the box, leading to a deflected effort that found its way into the net. The goal lifted the pressure and shifted momentum firmly in Eritrea’s favour.

THAT JUST ABOUT SEALS IT, ERITREA ARE ABOUT TO BEAT ESWATINI IN THEIR FIRST AFCON QUALIFIER IN NEARLY 20 YEARS 🤩🤩🤩

Eritrea 🇪🇷 2-0 Eswatini 🇸🇿 https://t.co/HlMsRPkIyx pic.twitter.com/WtP99xLHVd

— dedo ⚽️ (@dlicps) March 25, 2026

Deep into stoppage time, Sulieman put the result beyond doubt, capitalising on a disjointed Eswatini defence to score a second and seal the victory.

The result gives Eritrea a valuable advantage heading into the second leg of the tie, as they look to build on this long-awaited triumph and continue their push for qualification.