As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers draw to a dramatic conclusion, Sudan, Nigeria, and Rwanda headline Monday’s crucial fixtures, with each side harboring unique objectives. Sudan faces a do-or-die clash with Angola to secure a long-awaited AFCON berth, while Nigeria, already qualified, seeks to finish their campaign on a high note against a desperate Rwanda. Here’s a detailed preview of the action.
Sudan’s Do-or-Die Encounter Against Angola
Sudan will take on Group F leaders Angola at the Martyrs of February Stadium in a match that could determine their AFCON 2025 fate. Currently sitting in second place with seven points, Sudan needs at least a draw to guarantee their place in Morocco. However, their task is anything but simple.
Recent Setbacks and Resilience
Sudan’s confidence took a hit after a humbling 4-0 defeat to Niger in their previous match. Goals from Youssouf Oumarou, Ousseni Badamassi, and a brace by Daniel Sosah highlighted defensive vulnerabilities that Sudan must address to avoid a similar outcome against Angola. This disappointing performance contrasted sharply with their spirited 2-0 win over Ghana in October, a match that featured goals from Ahmed Hamed Mahmoud and Mohamed Abdelrahman.
Squad Updates and Key Players
James Kwesi Appiah’s squad will be without Ahmed Hamed Mahmoud due to injury, placing added pressure on Yasir Mozamil to lead the attack. He will be supported by Ebo Eisa and Saif Thierry, both capable of delivering in crucial moments.
However, history is not on Sudan’s side. They have failed to defeat Angola in their last five encounters, a record dating back to 1988. Angola, on the other hand, remains unbeaten in 13 matches across all competitions and has already secured their AFCON qualification.
Angola’s Stellar Form
Pedro Goncalves’ Angola side continues to impress, recently holding Ghana to a 1-1 draw. Their unbeaten run includes victories over all their Group F opponents and a resounding 5-0 win against Namibia to clinch the 2024 COSAFA Cup. With key players like Zini and Fredy in form, Angola will be a formidable challenge for Sudan.
Nigeria vs. Rwanda: Contrasting Stakes in Group D
At the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Nigeria will host Rwanda in their final Group D fixture. Having already secured qualification, the Super Eagles aim to wrap up their campaign with a statement win. For Rwanda, however, this match is a must-win as they fight for a rare AFCON appearance.
Nigeria’s Quest for Consistency
Under Augustine Eguavoen, Nigeria has dominated at home, securing convincing victories against Benin (3-0) and Libya (1-0) without conceding. Despite these successes, inconsistent performances, such as a 1-1 draw with Benin, have raised questions about their ability to maintain focus.
Nigeria will rely on stars like Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze to lead the attack and deliver another commanding display. The Super Eagles’ deep roster and home-field advantage make them clear favorites.
Rwanda’s High-Stakes Challenge
For Rwanda, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Two points behind second-placed Benin, the Wasps need an outright win to keep their qualification hopes alive. Breaking a nine-year winless streak in AFCON qualifiers will be no easy feat, but Rwanda’s urgency could inspire an extraordinary performance.
Their struggles, including a recent 3-0 loss to Benin, highlight the challenges they face. A win against Nigeria would mark Rwanda’s second AFCON qualification since 2004, a milestone that would galvanize the nation.
Ghana vs. Niger: A Battle of Pride and Opportunity
In Accra, Ghana hosts Niger in a match with contrasting stakes. Ghana’s elimination from AFCON 2025 contention has left them playing for pride, while Niger must win and hope for favorable results in the group’s other fixture to keep their slim qualification hopes alive.
Ghana’s Disappointment
For the Black Stars, this campaign has been one to forget. Despite flashes of brilliance, such as Jordan Ayew’s spectacular free-kick against Angola, inconsistency and defensive lapses have cost them dearly. Their final game offers an opportunity to regroup and give their fans something to cheer about.
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Niger’s Last Stand
Niger enters this match with momentum following their 4-0 victory over Sudan. Led by standout performers like Daniel Sosah, they must replicate that form in Accra while relying on results elsewhere to secure an unlikely qualification.
What’s at Stake?
- Sudan vs. Angola: Sudan needs at least a draw to secure second place in Group F and return to the AFCON stage. Angola, already qualified, aims to maintain their unbeaten run.
The final round of Afcon qualifiers is on today with all focus on Group F and Group D.
F; Sudan(7) vs Angola(✅)
Ghana(⛔) vs Niger(4)D; Nigeria(✅) vs Rwanda(5)
Libya (4) Vs Benin(7)✅ Qualified
⛔ Impossible pic.twitter.com/SlLFdPfpAG— Duncan (@duncangutse) November 18, 2024
- Nigeria vs. Rwanda: Nigeria looks to close their campaign on a high, while Rwanda fights to end their AFCON drought with a victory.
- Ghana vs. Niger: Ghana seeks redemption, while Niger aims for a win to keep their slim qualification hopes alive.
Final Thoughts: High Drama in AFCON Qualifiers
As the AFCON 2025 qualifiers reach their climax, the stakes couldn’t be higher for teams like Sudan and Rwanda, who must deliver under pressure to achieve their dreams. For others, like Nigeria and Angola, the focus shifts to maintaining momentum and building confidence ahead of the tournament in Morocco.
The conclusion of the group stage promises drama, heartbreak, and unforgettable moments, setting the stage for what’s shaping up to be an exciting AFCON in 2025.
