The qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) concluded in dramatic fashion on Tuesday as Botswana, Mozambique, and Tanzania claimed the final three spots. With 21 teams already through to the finals, the race for the remaining places brought excitement, surprises, and celebrations across the continent. Here’s a detailed look at how the last day unfolded.
Botswana’s Historic Qualification
Botswana made history by securing their second-ever qualification for the AFCON, their first since 2012, with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Egypt in Cairo. The Zebras needed just a point to advance but were given little chance against an Egypt side that dominated possession.
The match started dramatically as Omaatla Kebatho capitalized on poor defending to put Botswana ahead in the eighth minute. Egypt quickly responded, leveling through Mahmoud Trezeguet in the 15th minute.
Despite having 82% possession and 29 attempts, Egypt failed to break down Botswana’s resilient defense. Goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko and his backline held firm, frustrating the home side and securing the vital draw. Botswana’s players and coaching staff celebrated jubilantly at the final whistle, marking a significant achievement for the southern African nation.
Mauritania, who beat Cape Verde 1-0, would have qualified had Egypt won, but they finished a point behind Botswana in Group C.
Tanzania Triumph in a Decisive Clash
Tanzania clinched their fourth AFCON qualification by defeating Guinea 1-0 in a high-stakes encounter in Dar-es-Salaam. The game was a direct contest for second place in Group H, with Guinea needing only a draw to advance.
Simon Msuva’s brilliant header is enough to send Tanzania to the AFCON 2025.
This will be the Taifa Stars’ fourth appearance at the continent’s premier tournament. This 1-0 victory in Dar means that AFCON 2023 quarterfinalists Guinea fail to qualify.pic.twitter.com/EsnnCiCbh0
— Usher Komugisha (@UsherKomugisha) November 19, 2024
Veteran forward Simon Msuva proved to be the hero for Tanzania, scoring the game’s only goal in the 61st minute. The Tanzanian defense held firm against late pressure from Guinea, ensuring a memorable victory and a spot in Morocco.
The result is a testament to Tanzania’s growing strength in African football, as they continue to make their mark on the continental stage.
Mozambique’s Lusophone Derby Victory
Mozambique secured their second consecutive AFCON qualification with a stunning 2-1 victory over Guinea Bissau in their Lusophone derby. Entering the match under pressure after a home loss to Mali, Mozambique needed at least a draw to progress but delivered a spirited performance.
Bruno Langa opened the scoring for Mozambique in the ninth minute, silencing the home crowd. Guinea Bissau equalized through Everton’s Beto just before halftime, but Stanley Ratifo restored Mozambique’s lead in the 52nd minute.
Mozambique defended resolutely in the second half to seal the win and their place in Morocco. The victory capped off a challenging yet rewarding campaign for the Mambas, showcasing their resilience and determination.
Key Highlights from Other Matches
While most of the remaining games had no impact on qualification, there were notable moments across the continent:
- Mali’s Dominance: Dorgeles Nene scored a hat-trick as Mali crushed Eswatini 6-0 in Bamako, finishing Group E with authority.
- Ivory Coast’s Victory: Simon Adingra, a finalist for African Player of the Year, scored as Ivory Coast beat Chad 4-0. Despite the win, they finished second in Group G behind Zambia, who defeated Sierra Leone 2-0.
- Senegal’s Unbeaten Run: Habib Diarra’s brace helped Senegal secure a 2-0 victory over Burundi in Dakar, completing their Group L campaign unbeaten.
- Ethiopia’s Upset: Ethiopia ended DR Congo’s unbeaten run with a shocking 2-1 win in Kinshasa. Mohammednur Nasir scored the winner six minutes into stoppage time, providing a dramatic conclusion.
Final Group Standings for Key Groups
Group C
- Egypt – 14 points
- Botswana – 8 points
- Mauritania – 7 points
- Cape Verde – 4 points
Group H
- Algeria – 15 points
- Tanzania – 9 points
- Guinea – 7 points
- Uganda – 5 points
Group I
- Mali – 16 points
- Mozambique – 10 points
- Guinea Bissau – 7 points
- Eswatini – 0 points
24/24. The plane to #AFCON2025 is ready to take off! ✈️ pic.twitter.com/0IQ14QKOKQ
— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) November 19, 2024
What This Means for AFCON 2025
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco will feature 24 teams, including debutants and seasoned campaigners. Botswana’s return after 12 years, alongside Tanzania’s steady rise and Mozambique’s consistency, highlights the growing competitiveness of African football.
The finals promise exciting matchups, with top teams like Senegal, Algeria, and Egypt leading the charge. Meanwhile, emerging sides such as Botswana and Mozambique will look to make their presence felt on the grand stage.
Looking Ahead
The AFCON 2025 finals in Morocco will kick off in December 2025, and fans can expect a month of thrilling football showcasing the best talent across Africa. For Botswana, Mozambique, and Tanzania, the focus will now shift to preparation, as they aim to leave a mark in the tournament.
As the qualifiers conclude, the continent eagerly awaits the draw to see how the 24 teams will be grouped for the much-anticipated event.
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