DR Congo played a goalless draw against Angola as both teams commenced their preparations on a not-so-bright note. Angola’s inability to score goals continued as they have recorded 4 straight goalless draws in all competitions.
Ghana’s group opponent Mozambique defeated Lesotho 2-0 at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa. Atletico Madrid defender Reinildo Mandava scored the opening goal in the 27th minute. Lau Ha King’s 81st minute doubled Mozambique’s lead as they won 2-0.
Tunisia drew 0-0 against Mauritania at the Stade Olympique Hammadi Agrebi in Rades, Tunisia.
Host Ivory Coast eviscerated Sierra Leone 5-1 in San Pedro at the Stade Lauren Pokou. Jean-Louis Gasset will be excited as 5 different players scored for The Elephants. Ousmane Diomade, Frank Kessie, Jonathan Bamba, Jeremie Boga and Lazare Amani were all on the scoresheet for Ivory Coast.
In Bamako at the Stade du 26 Mars, Mali massacred Guinea Bissau 6-2. Youssoufou Niakate, Lassana Coulibaly, Kamory Doumbia, Dorgeles Nene (brace) and Falaye Sacko were the scorers for Mali. Mama Balde and Carlos Mane’s goals were mere consolation for Guinea Bissau.
Guinea Bissau will open the much anticipated AFCON 2023 competition with a game against the host, Ivory Coast on Saturday 13th January while Mali will play their first game on 16th January against the Bafana Bafana of South Africa.
