Botswana qualifies for the Morocco 2025 AFCON after a 1-1 draw with Egypt, marking their return after 12 years. The result secured their second appearance at the tournament, while Mauritania defeated Cape Verde 1-0 to finish third in the group. Egypt topped the group with 14 points, and Cape Verde ended last with four points.
Botswana has made a triumphant return to the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a 12-year absence by securing a 1-1 draw against Egypt at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium. This result confirmed Botswana’s qualification for the Morocco 2025 AFCON, marking only their second appearance in the tournament’s history. Their first was in 2012, making this moment a significant milestone for the national team, known as the Zebras. The match began with early drama, as Botswana’s Omaatla Kebatho scored in the eighth minute, finishing a well-placed cross from Kabelo Seakanyeng into the top corner. Egypt quickly equalized with a goal from Trezeguet, which came in the 15th minute, leaving the score tied at one apiece. Despite both teams creating further chances, the score remained unchanged at halftime. During the second half, Egypt controlled the game and put pressure on Botswana’s defense, with several opportunities to score. Strikers Omar Marmoush and Ibrahim Adel came close but were continually thwarted by the resolute Botswana defense and key saves from goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko. Botswana, aware that a draw would suffice for qualification, adopted a disciplined approach and successfully defended against numerous Egyptian attacks until the final whistle. In the other match within Group C, Mauritania managed a narrow victory over Cape Verde, winning 1-0 thanks to a goal by Mohamed Soueid late in the first half. This outcome allowed Mauritania to finish third in the group, accumulating seven points, while Cape Verde ended their disappointing campaign with only four points, placing them at the bottom of the standings. The final standings of Group C are as follows: Egypt – 14 points, Botswana – 8 points, Mauritania – 7 points, and Cape Verde – 4 points.
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is a prestigious football tournament organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), featuring national teams from across the continent. Botswana’s qualification for the upcoming 2025 tournament in Morocco is notable as it marks their return after a significant absence and represents a leap forward in the development of football in the nation. This year’s qualification has been especially challenging due to the competitive nature of the qualifying rounds, but Botswana’s resilience has earned them a coveted spot in the tournament alongside established teams such as Egypt.
The successful draw against Egypt has qualified Botswana for the AFCON for the first time in over a decade, showcasing their growth in international football. While Egypt remains unbeaten in their qualifiers, Botswana’s disciplined performance highlighted their determination and skill. Meanwhile, Mauritania’s victory over Cape Verde provided them with a morale boost as they concluded their qualifiers on a high note, despite not progressing to the AFCON. The final standings reflect a season of competitive matches, with Botswana now poised to make an impactful return to the continental stage.
Original Source: www.cafonline.com
