Mali, Zambia and Zimbabwe reach Afcon 2025

Mali, Zambia and Zimbabwe have booked their places at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with one round of qualifying to spare.

Kamory Doumbia’s first-half goal gave Mali a 1-0 win in Mozambique, with the game going ahead in Maputo despite street protests following last month’s disputed presidential election.

The Eagles are assured of top spot in Group I, while Mozambique must avoid defeat against Guinea-Bissau in their final game to join them at the finals in Morocco.

The West Africans are three points behind the Mambas in the table after they drew 1-1 away against Eswatini, but could still qualify if they secure a victory over Mozambique on Tuesday that gives them an advantage in the head-to-head between the two teams.

Zambia moved to the summit of Group G after registering a surprise 1-0 home victory over reigning continental champions Ivory Coast – although the Elephants were already through before kick-off.

That result ends Sierra Leone’s hopes of qualification.

Zimbabwe knew a point from their home game against Kenya would be enough to secure a top-two spot in Group J, and saw out a 1-1 draw against the Harambee Stars to ensure they progress alongside Cameroon.

Botswana missed the chance to book just their second appearance at Afcon after drawing 1-1 at home against Mauritania in Group C.

Cape Verde were eliminated after a 1-1 stalemate at home against already-qualified Egypt.

Botswana now need a point from their trip to Egypt on Tuesday to qualify, while Mauritania will finish second in the group if they win at home against Cape Verde and the Zebras are beaten in Cairo.