In the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Friday, Egypt and Mali secured victories, while Burkina Faso played to a goalless draw.
In the early match held in Cairo, Egypt, who had already qualified, concluded their campaign with a 1-0 triumph over Ethiopia. This victory ensured they clinched the top spot in Group D ahead of Guinea, also qualified, who will face Malawi on Saturday. Mostafa Fathi netted the decisive goal in the first half.
In a late-night fixture in Marrakesh, already-qualified Burkina Faso faced a goalless draw at ‘home’ against Eswatini. Burkina Faso’s position at the top of Group B could be overtaken by fellow qualifiers Cape Verde, who are set to play Togo on Sunday.
Lastly, already-qualified Mali continued their impressive run in Group G with a resounding 4-0 win over bottom-placed South Sudan in Bamako. Ibrahima Kone, Kamory Doumbia (twice), and Nene Dorgeles were the goal scorers at the Stade du 26 Mars as Mali consolidated their lead in the group. Their qualification from Group G will be determined by the outcome of the match between Gambia and Congo, which is scheduled for Sunday in Marrakesh.
The AFCON qualifiers will continue with a packed schedule on Saturday, featuring eight matches across the continent. Highlights include Mozambique facing Benin in Group L, and two clashes from Group I: DR Congo vs. Sudan and Mauritania vs. Gabon.
AFCON qualifiers results from Friday, September 8:
- Egypt 1-0 Ethiopia
- Burkina Faso 0-0 Eswatini
- Mali 4-0 South Sudan
