Comoros Qualifies for AFCON for the First Time Ever, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana joins

Comoros Island secured qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in their history after a 0-0 draw with Togo on Thursday.

They were also aided with Egypt’s 1-1 draw with Kenya which ensured that the Kenyans cannot get more than 8 points even if they beat Togo in Lome on the last matchday.

Comoros joins the Egyptians to qualify but both teams will fight for the top spot when both teams face each other in the final group game in Cairo.

Also joining the duo on Thursday is Ghana who was held to a 1-1 draw by South Africa. Ajax midfielder Mohammed Kudus scored for Ghana early in the second half but the lead barely lasted as Pacy Tau score in the 52nd minute, three minutes later.

While Ghana and South Africa are leveled on point in their group, it is the Bafana Bafana who need to avoid a defeat against Sudan in their last game in the group while Ghana host already eliminated Sao Tome En Principe.

The Sudanese still stand a chance if they manage to beat South Africa in their last group game.

Meanwhile, in other results, Gabon and the Gambia also secured qualification to the AFCON after wins in their respective matches.

Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was on target for the Black Panthers’ third goal of the game as Gabon beat DR Congo 3-0.

The result eliminated the Congolese from a qualification chance and ensured that the Gambia qualified with a game to spare.

Furthermore, Algeria and Equatorial Guinea secured qualifications after both got the needed results. Equatorial Guinea beat Tanzania 1-0 to seal their spot and join group winners Tunisia.

The Algerians were involved in a six-goal thriller against Zambia who needed a win to remain in contention for qualification.

The defending champions held on after seeing their 2-0 lead evaporate to a 3-3 final score which nevertheless secured their place and also incidentally secure Zimbabwe’s qualification after they beat Botswana earlier in the day.

 

Written by: Akinnifesi Olumide