CAN 2025 Qualifiers: Morocco shines, Senegal and Mali stumble
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers delivered intense battles across the continent, with mixed fortunes for the giants of African football. Host nation Morocco made a strong start with a convincing 4-1 victory over Gabon in Agadir. The Atlas Lions, already qualified as hosts, displayed their strength through Hakim Ziyech, who scored twice from the penalty spot.
Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz netted his first goal for Morocco, while Ayoub El Kaabi sealed the win late in the game. Despite a penalty goal from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Gabon could not withstand Morocco’s high pressing and defensive discipline.
Elsewhere, Egypt impressed with a comfortable 3-0 triumph over Cape Verde, courtesy of goals from Rabia, Marmoush, and Adel. The Pharaohs, efficient and clinical, now lead Group C. Côte d’Ivoire also delivered, overcoming Zambia 2-0 with a decisive brace from Jean-Philippe Krasso in the closing minutes, securing top spot in Group G.
By contrast, Senegal and Mali struggled to impose themselves. In Diamniadio, Sadio Mané’s early strike seemed enough for Senegal before Bouda’s stoppage-time equalizer earned Burkina Faso a valuable draw (1-1). In Bamako, Mali narrowly avoided defeat against Mozambique, salvaging a point thanks to Yves Bissouma after Catamo’s opener.
These results highlight Morocco’s dominance, Egypt’s efficiency, and the unexpected difficulties of Senegal and Mali at the start of their campaigns.
