The race for qualification to the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 delivered another thrilling chapter on 15 November 2024. With high stakes and competitive matchups, Zambia, Mali, and Zimbabwe celebrated their progression to the prestigious tournament, while other teams continue to battle for their place. Here’s an in-depth recap of the action-packed evening.

AFCON 2025 Qualifiers Recap and Results

Zambia 1-0 Côte d’Ivoire – Group G

Zambia’s Kennedy Musonda etched his name in Chipolopolo history with a remarkable strike that secured their qualification. Musonda’s long-range effort from over 35 yards in the 43rd minute left the Ivorian goalkeeper rooted to the spot.

The defending champions, Côte d’Ivoire, entered the game with their place in AFCON already assured but were keen to assert their dominance in Group G. Despite making attacking changes in the second half, the Ivorian attack was thwarted by Zambia’s defense, led by the commanding Frankie Musonda.

Zambia’s victory propels them to the top of the group with 10 points, ensuring their place in the tournament. Côte d’Ivoire, despite the loss, remains on course to defend their title, having already booked their ticket to the competition.

Mozambique 0-1 Mali – Group I

Mali delivered another professional performance to confirm their AFCON 2025 qualification, defeating Mozambique 1-0 at the Estádio do Zimpeto. Yves Bissouma played a pivotal role in the build-up to the game’s only goal, threading a precise pass to Kamory Doumbia, who slotted the ball into the bottom corner in the 19th minute.

Mozambique showed determination in the second half, creating multiple chances, but the Malian defense stood resolute. Goalkeeper Djigui Diarra made critical saves to maintain Mali’s slender lead, frustrating the hosts.

This win leaves Mali at the summit of Group I, guaranteeing their spot at AFCON 2025. Mozambique, however, faces a challenging final fixture as they hope to salvage their qualification chances.

Eswatini 1-1 Guinea-Bissau – Group I

A dramatic encounter between Eswatini and Guinea-Bissau ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving both teams with uncertain qualification hopes.

After a goalless first half, Eswatini shocked the visitors when Philani Mkhonto found the back of the net in the 81st minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse. Guinea-Bissau responded just six minutes later through Carlos Mané, who headed home from close range to rescue a crucial point.

Guinea-Bissau’s qualification now hinges on their final game, as they sit third in the group with five points. Eswatini, at the bottom of the table with two points, is mathematically eliminated.

Zimbabwe 1-1 Kenya – Group J

At the Peter Mokaba Stadium, Zimbabwe sealed their place in AFCON 2025 with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Kenya.

Tawanda Maswanhise opened the scoring for Zimbabwe in the 32nd minute, capitalizing on an assist from the ever-reliable Khama Billiat. Kenya equalized early in the second half through Jonah Ayunga, who showcased great composure in front of goal.

Despite Kenya’s relentless push for a winner, Zimbabwe held firm to secure the point they needed to confirm qualification. Zimbabwe’s consistent performances throughout the qualifiers have been instrumental in their success, while Kenya now faces an uphill battle to advance.

Cape Verde 1-1 Egypt – Group C

In Group C, Cape Verde hosted Egypt, who had already secured their place in AFCON 2025. The Pharaohs dominated the first half, with Taher Mohamed breaking the deadlock in the 31st minute with a precise strike from a tight angle.

Cape Verde, however, showed resilience and earned a penalty in the second half following a foul by Mahmoud Saber. Ryan Mendes stepped up and calmly converted, leveling the score in the 63rd minute.

Both teams sought a winner but failed to find the net again. Egypt retains their top spot in Group C and remains unbeaten, while Cape Verde’s AFCON hopes appear dim.

Other AFCON 2025 Qualifiers Results

Angola 1-1 Ghana (Group E): Both teams shared the spoils in a fiercely contested draw, leaving their qualification hopes alive.
Gabon 1-5 Morocco (Group A): Morocco displayed their class with a dominant performance, reinforcing their status as one of the tournament favorites.
Gambia 2-1 Comoros (Group B): A late surge by Gambia earned them a vital win to keep their campaign alive.
South Africa 2-0 Uganda (Group K): South Africa continued their impressive form, edging closer to securing qualification.

Key Takeaways from the Night

Confirmed Qualifiers: Zambia, Mali, and Zimbabwe join the growing list of teams heading to AFCON 2025.
Tense Battles Ahead: Teams like Guinea-Bissau and Mozambique face must-win scenarios in their final matches to keep their dreams alive.
Dominant Morocco: The Atlas Lions’ statement victory over Gabon positions them as favorites heading into the tournament.

Looking Ahead

With just a few matchdays left, the qualifiers promise more drama as teams jostle for the remaining slots. The next round of matches will determine who will make it to AFCON 2025, ensuring that the excitement continues for football fans across the continent.