Mali, Zambia and Zimbabwe secure AFCON 2025 qualification

Ahmed Ghandour , Friday 15 Nov 2024

Mali, Zambia, and Zimbabwe have all booked their spots at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Friday with one round of qualifiers remaining.

Zambia
Zambia players are celebrating after Kennedy Musonda scored his side's goal during the 1-0 win over Ivory Coast in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Friday. Photo: CAF's official website.

Mali edged past Mozambique 1-0 in Maputo, courtesy of Kamory Doumbia's first-half strike.

With this win, Mali guaranteed the top spot in Group I, while Mozambique must avoid defeat against Guinea-Bissau in their final match to secure the second qualifying berth.

Guinea-Bissau, three points behind Mozambique, remain in contention after a 1-1 draw with Eswatini since a win for them in their decisive clash on Tuesday could see them advance on head-to-head advantage.

Elsewhere, Zambia claimed an impressive 1-0 victory over reigning champions Ivory Coast, taking the top spot in Group G.

Although the Elephants had already secured qualification before the match, the result ended Sierra Leone’s slim hopes of advancing.

In Group J, Zimbabwe ensured their place in Morocco with a 1-1 draw against Kenya.

Needing just a point to secure qualification, Zimbabwe delivered a steady performance to join Cameroon in advancing.

AFCON 2025 will take place in Morocco, where 24 teams will compete for continental glory.

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