As the excitement builds for Matchday Three of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, the battle intensifies among the 48 competing national teams.
Over the next few days, teams will clash in a series of crucial matches as they strive for qualification to Africa’s premier football tournament.
With 24 fixtures scheduled, each match will be pivotal in determining the fate of the teams vying for a spot in Morocco 2025.
Here’s a closer look at the matchups in each group:
Group A
Tunisia is flying high at the top of Group A with two wins out of two, and they will look to maintain their perfect record against Comoros, who desperately seek their first points of the campaign. Madagascar and Gambia, both still without points, are under pressure to secure vital victories as they prepare to face each other. The upcoming matches could redefine the dynamics of this group, especially for those fighting to stay in contention.
Fixtures: Madagascar vs Gambia, Tunisia vs Comoros
Group B
Morocco has established itself as the team to beat in Group B, boasting two convincing victories. They will face the Central African Republic, who are determined to keep their hopes alive. Gabon and Lesotho, both still hunting for their first points, will clash in a crucial encounter that could have significant implications for their qualification chances. This matchday promises to be decisive as teams aim to carve out their paths to the finals.
Fixtures: Gabon v Lesotho, Morocco vs Central African Republic
Group C
Egypt continues to demonstrate dominance in Group C, having won both of their matches impressively. They will be tested against Mauritania, who holds a strong second place but will need to deliver their best to challenge the Pharaohs. Cape Verde Islands and Botswana are both keen to prove their mettle and must capitalize on their upcoming fixtures to gain ground. Expect an intense showdown as each team vies for crucial points.
Fixtures: Cape Verde vs Botswana, Egypt v Mauritania
Group D
Nigeria remains the frontrunner in Group D with solid performances thus far, while Benin trails closely in second place. The match against Libya offers Nigeria a chance to consolidate their position, while Rwanda desperately seeks their first victory against Benin. The stakes are high as teams aim to establish themselves in the top two spots and secure their place in Morocco.
Fixtures: Nigeria v Libya, Benin v Rwanda
Group E
Algeria leads Group E with two convincing wins and will aim to continue their strong form against Togo. Equatorial Guinea and Liberia, both yet to find their footing, face a critical match that could determine their qualification fate. The pressure is on for all teams as the race for qualification heats up, with every point being vital.
Fixtures: Algeria vs Togo, Eq Guinea v Liberia
Group F
Angola leads the charge in Group F, boasting a perfect record so far. They will be looking to extend their winning streak against Niger, who are desperate for points. Sudan, sitting in second place, faces Ghana in what promises to be a competitive fixture. As teams vie for position, the tension is palpable with each match potentially reshaping the group standings.
Fixtures: Ghana vs Sudan, Angola v Niger
Group G
Cote d’Ivoire stands strong in Group G with two wins, setting the tone for their next fixture against Sierra Leone, who are in search of their first points. Zambia is hot on their heels and will face Chad, eager to solidify their own position. This matchday presents a crucial opportunity for lower-ranked teams to assert themselves and keep their qualification hopes alive.
Fixtures: Cote d’Ivoire vs Sierra Leone, Zambia vs Chad
Group H
DR Congo currently leads Group H with two victories, but Tanzania poses a formidable challenge as they attempt to close the gap. Ethiopia and Guinea are in urgent need of points and will be looking to seize opportunities in their respective matches. The competitiveness of this group is heating up, promising thrilling encounters ahead.
Fixtures: DR Congo vs Tanzania, Guinea vs Ethiopia
Group I
Mali’s strong performances have placed them at the top of Group I, while Mozambique is lurking in second place. Guinea-Bissau and Swaziland are yet to score points, and both teams are under pressure to make their mark. With critical matches on the horizon, every point is crucial for teams aiming for qualification.
Fixtures: Mozambique vs Eswatini, Mali vs Guinea-Bissau
Group J
Cameroon leads Group J, showcasing their strength in the qualifiers, while Kenya closely follows in a competitive second place. Namibia is in urgent need of points, facing a tough challenge against Zimbabwe. The dynamics of this group are evolving as teams battle for supremacy and a chance to qualify.
Fixtures: Cameroon v Kenya, Namibia vs Zimbabwe
Group K
Uganda and South Africa are both performing well, leading Group K. They face crucial matches that will determine their positions in the race for qualification. Congo and South Sudan are looking to make a statement and must deliver strong performances to keep their hopes alive.
Fixtures: Uganda v South Sudan, South Africa v Congo
Group L
Burkina Faso and Senegal are tied at the top of Group L, each demonstrating solid performances thus far. Both teams will be keen to secure victories to maintain their positions, while Malawi is desperately seeking their first points. This group is set for intense competition as the battle for qualification intensifies.
Fixtures: Burkina Faso vs Burundi, Senegal v Malawi
-Caf
