The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers are set to intensify on Friday, with top African football nations vying for crucial points as they aim to secure a spot in next year’s tournament in Morocco.
One of the key highlights is the much-anticipated return of South Africa captain Ronwen Williams to Bafana Bafana’s squad, following his recent nomination for the prestigious Yachine Trophy at the Ballon d’Or awards.
South Africa’s head coach Hugo Broos is determined to guide his team to victory as they prepare to face Congo.
With two wins already in the bag, another triumph would see South Africa on the brink of qualification.
Broos, however, remains cautious, stating that there is still work to be done despite their favorable position.
“If we have six on six, we are qualified,” said Broos. “But if we don’t, then maybe the two games against South Sudan and Uganda can be tricky.
The coach emphasized the importance of a well-rounded performance after being dissatisfied with his team’s previous displays.
We didn’t see the real South Africa in our last two games.
I wasn’t happy with the performance, but I was only happy with the results,” he added.
In Group L, Senegal will face Malawi at the Stade Me Abdoulaye Wade.
After the unexpected departure of Aliou Cissé last week, the Lions of Teranga are currently under the interim guidance of Pape Thiaw, Cissé’s former assistant.
Senegal, currently sitting second in their group, are looking to secure all three points to challenge group leaders Burkina Faso.
Elsewhere, Nigeria, who sit comfortably at the top of Group D, are preparing for a crucial home match against Libya at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
Super Eagles interim coach Augustine Eguavoen has set his sights on maintaining their lead and pushing closer to qualification.
Despite Libya’s struggles in the group, Eguavoen warned against complacency, expecting a tough encounter.
“That they [Libya] are down right now doesn’t mean they cannot rise,” said Eguavoen.
They will come to fight. It will be tough, but the boys are ready, and with the spirit in the camp, they will deliver.
Friday’s round of fixtures is packed with high-stakes encounters as teams across Africa battle for supremacy.
Egypt will host Mauritania, while Uganda face South Sudan.
Cameroon will take on Kenya in Group J, and reigning AFCON champions Ivory Coast will face Sierra Leone.
Meanwhile, Tunisia will go head-to-head with Comoros, and Gabon will clash with Lesotho.
As the road to Morocco 2025 continues, fans can expect another thrilling chapter in Africa’s premier football competition, with nations aiming to secure their places in the tournament.
The upcoming matches will be pivotal for many teams as the race to AFCON qualification heats up.
