AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Ethiopia stun Mozambique with late winner to claim first victory

Ethiopia secured a crucial 1-0 away victory over Mozambique in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers after Kenean Markneh scored a late winner to hand his side a major boost in their Group J campaign.

The East African side delivered a disciplined performance at the Zimpeto National Stadium on Friday, November 13, as they held their hosts at bay before finding the decisive breakthrough in the closing stages.

Both teams struggled to create clear-cut opportunities in the first half, with neither side able to find the back of the net despite their efforts to take control of the encounter.

The contest appeared destined to end in a goalless stalemate until Markneh emerged as Ethiopia’s hero with a decisive contribution late in the game.

The forward finished off a swift counterattacking move with a right-footed effort from inside the penalty area, beating Mozambique goalkeeper Ernan to send the visitors into celebration and secure all three points.

The result marks Ethiopia’s first victory in the Group J qualifying campaign and offers them renewed belief as they seek to revive their hopes of securing a place at the 2027 AFCON tournament.

For Mozambique, the defeat represents a setback after missing the opportunity to strengthen their position in the group, although they remain second with four points.

Senegal continue to occupy top spot with seven points, while Sudan and Ethiopia have three points each, leaving Ethiopia at the bottom of the standings despite their important victory.