Benin Takes Point From African Champions, Senegal
Benin held the reigning African champions, Senegal, to a 1-1 draw in their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2023) qualifier at the Stade de l’Amitié in Cotonou. The highly anticipated clash took place on Saturday night.
Senegal, who had won all their previous matches in the group, started with a revamped lineup featuring Nicolas Jackson, Abdoulaye Seck, and Seny Dieng. However, they were unable to break through the resilient Benin defense. Bayern Munich forward, Sadio Mané captained the Senegal side in the absence of Kalidou Koulibaly, who provided support from the substitutes’ bench.
Benin, under the guidance of former Super Eagles of Nigeria coach, Gernot Rohr, aimed to secure victory to enhance their qualification hopes.
Despite already securing their place in the tournament, Senegal displayed their determination early on, with Jackson’s powerful strike narrowly missing the target. Senegal continued to press forward, testing the Benin defense and being denied by the woodwork or the impressive goalkeeping of Saturnin Allagbe.
In the 44th minute, Senegal broke the deadlock. Mané delivered a perfectly placed cross to Jackson, whose header prompted a challenge from Abdoulaye Seck. The defender made no mistake and found the back of the net, giving Senegal the lead. However, the second half saw a shift in momentum as Senegal gradually lost control of the match, allowing Benin to capitalize.
In the 78th minute, Moumini unleashed a thunderous strike that flew into the top corner of the net, leaving Senegal goalkeeper Seny Dieng helpless. Benin’s equalizer not only earned them a valuable point but also marked a significant achievement, as no team had taken points from the African champions in this qualifying group. Benin’s qualification hopes now hinge on their performance in the final match against Mozambique at the Estádio da Machava.
Equatorial Guinea Shock Tunisia to Secure AFCON 2023 Ticket
Equatorial Guinea needed just a single point to secure their qualification for Cote d’Ivoire 2023, joining Tunisia who had already secured their place in the tournament. The first half of the Group J game between both teams provided limited scoring opportunities for both teams.
The second half continued in a scrappy fashion with few notable moments, and set pieces injected some excitement into the game. One such moment occurred when Miranda’s shot for Equatorial Guinea took a deflection, briefly raising hopes of a goal.
In the 81st minute, Miranda was fouled by Kechrida, resulting in a penalty for Equatorial Guinea. Emilio Nsue, the captain of Equatorial Guinea, confidently stepped up and converted the spot-kick, avenging Equatorial Guinea’s 4-0 defeat in the first leg against Tunisia.
Meanwhile, in the other Group J match on Saturday, Botswana secured their first win of the qualifying campaign by defeating Libya 1-0 at Francistown Stadium. Gape Mohutsiwa scored the sole goal of the match just before half-time, giving the Zebras their first victory in the qualifying group. This win allowed Botswana to move ahead of Libya and claim the third position in the group. However, both teams have no chance of qualifying for AFCON 2023.
South Africa Defeat Africa’s Highest-Ranked Team, Morocco
South Africa delivered an impressive performance, securing a 2-1 victory over Morocco in their AFCON 2023 qualifiers. The match between these two qualified teams showcased the skills and abilities of two African football powerhouses. South Africa took control of the game right from the start, playing in front of their passionate home crowd.
Morocco, possibly fatigued from their demanding season that included reaching the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, struggled to assert their game against the determined Bafana Bafana.
South Africa wasted no time in demonstrating their dominance. Percy Tau’s cross led to an own goal by Munir El Kajoui, the Moroccan goalkeeper, giving South Africa an early advantage.
In the second half, South Africa continued their strong performance, capitalizing on defensive weaknesses in the Moroccan team. Zakhele Lepasa took advantage of a defensive lapse to extend South Africa’s lead. The FNB Stadium was filled with excitement, with CAF President Patrice Motsepe present to witness this highly anticipated match. However, the Atlas Lions of Morocco refused to give up. Hakim Ziyech showcased his brilliance by scoring a magnificent left-footed shot, igniting hope for a Moroccan comeback.
Unfortunately for Morocco, their efforts fell short as they suffered their first official defeat since being eliminated from the World Cup.
Angola Seal 2-1 Win Over Central African Republic
In a crucial match in Douala, Angola emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over the Central African Republic (CAR), keeping their hopes of qualification alive. Felicio Mendes ‘Milson’ Joao scored the winning goal four minutes from time. Angola’s victory propelled them to second place in Group E with eight points, one ahead of CAR.
Both teams entered the match knowing that a win was crucial, but it was CAR who suffered a heartbreaking defeat at home, dashing their hopes of securing their first-ever qualification for the tournament.
Angola took an early lead in the 12th minute through Gaspar Kialonga. However, CAR’s superstar captain, Geoffrey Kondogbia, equalized just a minute into the second half, finishing off a pass from Karl Namnganda, who had just come on as a substitute. CAR faced an additional setback when goalkeeper Dominique Junior Youfeigane was shown a red card in the 70th minute, leaving them with 10 men for the remainder of the match.
With the score level, the match seemed destined for a draw, but in the 86th minute, Milson scored from a corner, taking Angola to a crucial victory. Substitute goalkeeper Alladoum Kolimba misjudged the flight of the ball, allowing Milson to find the net.
As the qualifying campaign heads into its final round of matches in September, Angola now controls its fate. They only need to win against the bottom-placed team, Madagascar, to secure their qualification. On the other hand, CAR must defeat Ghana and hope that Angola suffers a loss in order to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Zambia Beat AFCON 2023 Hosts Cote d’Ivoire to Secure Spot
Zambia secured their ticket after an impressive 3-0 victory over the already qualified hosts at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.
In a dominant performance, Patson Daka and Kings Kangwa scored in the second half to add to an own goal by Serge Aurier in the first half. The win propelled Avram Grant’s Chipolopolo to the top of Group H with 12 points, two points ahead of Ivory Coast.
With only one team able to progress from the group, Zambia sealed their qualification in style. The 2012 champions will be making their return to the tournament after missing the last three editions.
In the other Group H match in Johannesburg, Comoros defeated Lesotho 1-0 with a 90th-minute goal from Youssouf M’Changama. Although Comoros solidified their hold on third place with six points, both teams are now out of contention for a place in the tournament following Zambia’s win. Lesotho finished at the bottom of the group with just one point, having suffered four defeats in the qualifying matches.
Cape Verde Secures AFCON 2023 Qualification With Impressive Win
Cape Verde displayed their superiority with a convincing 3-1 AFCON 2023 qualification victory over Burkina Faso at the Estádio Nacional de Cabo Verde. The crowd erupted in jubilation as Bebé opened the scoring in the 7th minute, expertly finishing a well-crafted play orchestrated by Cape Verde’s Patrick Andrade.
Playing with confidence on their home turf, the Islanders took control of the game, leaving their Burkinabe opponents devoid of effective offensive strategies. Notably, there was a missed opportunity by Tapsoba, unable to capitalize on a lapse in the Cape Verdean defense.
While the Blue Sharks showcased their offensive prowess, they did encounter some defensive lapses during transitions. Taking advantage of these moments, Issoufou Dayo managed to scramble the ball into the net just before halftime.
As the teams returned for the second half, the Burkinabe side failed to regain their composure, losing their captain Bertrand Traoré to injury. It was a significant blow for the previous AFCON semi-finalists, who found themselves suffocated by their West African rivals. Fernandes’ strike from the right wing in the 76th minute restored Cape Verde’s advantage.
In the dying moments of the game, Andrade delivered the final blow, securing the third goal past Kilian Nikiema. With this remarkable victory, Cape Verde has secured their place in the upcoming tournament in Côte d’Ivoire, marking a significant achievement for the Blue Sharks.
Mali Seals AFCON 2023 Spot With Dominant Win
Mali emerged triumphant with a 2-0 victory over Congo in the AFCON 2023 qualifiers. The first half of the match remained goalless, but Mali displayed an entirely different level of play after the break. The Eagles unleashed a series of penetrating attacks, ultimately breaking the deadlock with a goal from Ibrahima Koné.
Taking advantage of their excellent phases of play, Malian coach Eric Chelle made a few strategic changes. The introduction of Nene Dorgeles, who replaced Kamory Doumbia, proved to be a winning move as Dorgeles found the back of the net just four minutes after coming on.
With a firm 2-0 lead, Mali skillfully navigated the remainder of the match without conceding any goals. This victory secures Mali’s qualification for the highly anticipated AFCON 2023 in Côte d’Ivoire.
Togo Beat Eswatini to Keep AFCON Dream Alive
Togo secured a crucial 2-0 victory on the road against Eswatini in their AFCON 2023 Qualifier, leaving the hosts’ qualification hopes hanging in the balance. The result propelled Togo to the third position in Group B, as they continue their fight for a place in Cote D’Ivoire next year.
The opening goal of the match came from striker Kevin Dinky in the 14th minute, giving Togo an early advantage. In the dying minutes, Ilogi Placa doubled the lead, sealing the victory for the visitors.
Despite creating several chances, Eswatini struggled with poor finishing and faced the outstanding Wasio Gneni in goal, who kept a clean sheet and secured valuable points for Togo.
Super Eagles Qualify for Cote d’Ivoire
Nigeria emerged victorious in an exhilarating clash against Sierra Leone, prevailing with a 3-2 scoreline to secure their place in AFCON 2023. In-form striker Victor Osimhen played a crucial role for the Super Eagles, scoring a brace that propelled them to a significant away victory and secured their qualification for the tournament.
Nigeria started the game in dominant fashion, and in the 19th minute, Osimhen lobbed the ball past Sierra Leone goalkeeper Ibrahim Sessay, sparking celebrations among the Super Eagles contingent. Only three minutes later, Samuel Chukwueze came close to extending the lead, but his shot went wide of the target.
With a well-executed assist from Ahmed Musa, Osimhen capitalised on the defensive lapse and unleashed a magnificent left-footed strike, further solidifying the Super Eagles’ advantage. Osimhen’s brace also propelled him to the top of the scoring charts with seven goals, surpassing Sadio Mané.
However, Sierra Leone found hope when Mustapha Bundu struck from the edge of the box, reducing the deficit just before halftime.
Sierra Leone emerged from the halftime break with renewed determination, launching relentless attacks on the Nigerian camp. Their efforts paid off as Augustus Kargbo equalized, leveling the score at 2-2. The momentum clearly favored the Sierra Leoneans, who continued to create opportunities while leaving gaps for the ever-vigilant Super Eagles. But it was Kelechi Iheanacho who seized the moment, securing Nigeria’s qualification with a crucial goal. This result also guarantees qualification for Guinea-Bissau.
Algeria Secures Fifth Consecutive Victory in Group F
Algeria overcame hosts Uganda with a 2-1 victory in their AFCON 2023 qualifier played at the Japoma Stadium in Douala, cementing their fifth consecutive victory in Group F. The result places the North Africans in a commanding position at the top of the group, while Uganda’s hopes of qualifying for next year’s continental showpiece hang in the balance as they remain in third place.
Mohamed Lamine Amoura opened the scoring in the 42nd minute, providing the visitors with a confidence-boosting lead before halftime. Uganda attempted a comeback in the second half but faced a highly alert goalkeeper in Anthony Mandrea, who kept their efforts at bay. Amoura then doubled Algeria’s lead in the 66th minute, capitalizing on a pass from Riyad Mahrez to calmly slot the ball into the net.
Fahd Bayo found Uganda’s only goal in the 88th minute, but it was too late as the match ended with a 2-1 victory in favor of Algeria.
DR Congo Seal Away Win Over Gabon
DR Congo revived their hopes of qualifying for AFCON 2023 with a crucial 2-0 away win over Gabon in Franceville on Sunday night. The match held immense significance as both teams were vying for qualification in a tightly contested group. Adding to the intrigue was the fact that DR Congo had never emerged victorious in Gabon historically.
From the start, the Panthers displayed their intent, launching attacks that tested the skills of goalkeeper Lionel Mpassi. However, in the 34th minute, the tide turned in favor of the Leopards. A well-executed corner kick found Aaron Tshibola, who skillfully redirected the ball into the net, giving DR Congo the lead.
As the game progressed, DR Congo continued to assert their dominance. In the 83rd minute, substitute Mayele showcased her prowess by latching onto a long pass from Meschak Elia. With skillful footwork and a powerful strike, Mayele scored her first international goal, extending DR Congo’s lead.
With only two shots on target, DR Congo effectively stifled Gabon’s attacking ambitions. The Panthers, disheartened by their inability to break through the Congolese defense, appeared resigned to defeat in the closing stages of the match.
This crucial victory propels Sébastien Desabre’s men to the top of Group I, level on points with Gabon. Sudan and Mauritania closely trail behind with six and five points respectively, setting the stage for an intense showdown on Tuesday.
Rwanda Loses to Mozambique, Tanzania Hangs In, As Ghana Needs Victory in Final Game to Qualify
Mozambique kept their hopes of qualifying for AFCON 2023 alive with a hard-fought 2-0 away victory against Rwanda on Sunday. The win, featuring goals by Geny Catamo in the first half and Clesio Baugue in the dying minutes, dashed Rwanda’s hopes of securing a place in Africa’s flagship competition next year.
The hosts started strongly, putting pressure on their opponents and coming close to breaking the deadlock early on. However, Mozambique opted to absorb the pressure and looked to strike on the counter.
In the 36th minute, Mozambique had a stroke of luck as Nshuti Innocent’s strike hit the woodwork, denying Rwanda the lead. Just before halftime, a swift break led to Elias Pelembe delivering a delightful ball to Catamo, who controlled it well and fired into the far post, giving Mozambique the lead.
Rwanda continued its relentless attacks in search of an equalizer, but Mozambique’s defense held firm. Hakizimana Muhadjiri came close with a header, but the Mozambican goalkeeper made a crucial save.
As Rwanda pressed for the equalizer, Mozambique punished them on the counter. Substitute Clesio Baugue capitalized on defensive errors to drive into the box and secure the second goal, crushing Rwanda’s hopes of qualifying.
In another Group F encounter, Tanzania secured a vital victory against Niger thanks to a solitary goal by Simon Msuva. The win keeps Tanzania in contention for a place in Cote d’Ivoire next year.
Meanwhile, Ghana’s hopes of qualifying were put on hold as they were held to a goalless draw by Madagascar. The determined Malagasy team denied Ghana the victory they needed to secure their place in the tournament. Ghana will now need a win in their final game against Central African Republic to secure qualification.