Eight [8] countries qualify for 2025 AFCON despite two matches remaining

The race to secure qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco intensifies this week, with several crucial matches taking place across the continent.

So far, four nations have secured their places in next year’s tournament: Cameroon, the five-time AFCON champions; Algeria, the 2019 titleholders; Burkina Faso; and host nation Morocco, who all celebrated victories in the qualifying series on Monday.

Burkina Faso became the first team to qualify for the AFCON finals after a commanding 2-0 victory against Burundi on Sunday, October 13. Goals from Mohamed Konate and a penalty by Bertrand Traore propelled the Burkinabe team to 10 points from four games in Group L, ensuring they will finish in the top two.

Senegal currently sits in second place with seven points from three matches and can also secure qualification with a win away to Malawi on Tuesday. Burundi has accumulated three points from four games, while Malawi remains winless with none from three.

In another notable match, Cameroon edged out Kenya 1-0, thanks to a goal from Boris Enow in a match played in neutral Kampala. Enow scored with a low free kick just outside the box, helping Cameroon secure their victory despite the absence of their federation president, Samuel Eto’o, who is serving a six-month stadium ban imposed by FIFA. The win brings Cameroon to 10 points from four matches, ensuring their place among the top two in the group.

Algeria, on the other hand, has a perfect record, boasting 12 points from four games after Ramy Bensebaini converted a penalty in the 18th minute against Togo in Lome. Despite facing heavy pressure from their hosts, Algeria managed to hold onto their lead.

Zimbabwe strengthened their position in Group J with a 3-1 win over Namibia in neutral Johannesburg, moving to eight points—four ahead of third-placed Kenya. Walter Musona shone with a brace, including a penalty, while Prince Dube added another goal.

Equatorial Guinea is also in a strong position, five points clear in second place in their group after a thrilling 2-1 win over Liberia in Monrovia. Luis Asue opened the scoring, but William Gibson equalized for Liberia. Just as the match seemed headed for a draw, Dorian Hanza scored a dramatic 94th-minute winner.

In Group C, Gambia has moved into second place ahead of Comoros on head-to-head record, although they have played one more game. Meanwhile, Mozambique topped Group I with a convincing 3-0 victory over Eswatini in Nelspruit, featuring a goal from 40-year-old winger Domingues. Mozambique now leads the group, five points clear of third-placed Guinea Bissau, who will host Mali on Tuesday.

Below are the qualified teams so far:

Morocco (Hosts), Burkina Faso, Cameroon, DR Congo, Senegal, Angola, Egypt, Algeria