Malawi secured a 2-0 away victory against Comoros, and South Africa held Egypt to a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the TotalEnergies CAF CHAN 2025 qualifiers. Gambia and Gabon played to a goalless draw in their opening match. The second leg fixtures are set to take place in early March, determining the fate of each team in the qualifiers.
The first leg of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025 qualifiers concluded on Sunday, yielding critical outcomes that will influence progress to the subsequent stage. Malawi achieved a surprising 2-0 away victory over Comoros, while South Africa fought hard to secure a 1-1 draw against Egypt. Gambia and Gabon commenced the round by ending their match in a goalless stalemate.
Malawi showcased an impressive performance away against Comoros, clinching a 2-0 win. They took the lead in the 44th minute when Binwell Katinji exploited a defensive error. Comoros attempted to mount a comeback but failed to penetrate Malawi’s organized defense. In stoppage time, Zebron Kalima added a second goal, enhancing Malawi’s advantage ahead of the return leg on March 8.
South Africa displayed resilience at the Orlando Stadium, battling Egypt to a 1-1 draw. Under coach Molefi Ntseki, the squad featured a formidable attacking ensemble. Although South Africa had several opportunities in the first half, Egypt’s counter-attacking strategy paid off when Hassan Abdelaal scored in the 75th minute. However, South Africa equalized shortly after with a powerful effort from Jamie Webber, ensuring an important home draw.
Gambia and Gabon began the qualifiers with a 0-0 tie at Stade Lat Dior in Thiès, Senegal. Gabon’s robust defense allowed them to leave with a valuable away point, providing an edge as they prepare for the return leg against Gambia on March 8. All teams are now focusing on the crucial second-leg fixtures, where the quest for qualification intensifies.
The results of the first leg are as follows: Gambia 0 – 0 Gabon (February 28, 2025), Comoros 0 – 2 Malawi (March 2, 2025), South Africa 1 – 1 Egypt (March 2, 2025). Upcoming second-leg fixtures include Malawi vs. Comoros on March 8, Gabon vs. Gambia on March 8, and Egypt vs. South Africa on March 9. The continuing matches are pivotal for each team’s aspirations to qualify for CHAN 2025.
In summary, the TotalEnergies CAF CHAN 2025 qualifiers first leg delivered significant results, with Malawi and South Africa showcasing strong performances. Malawi’s decisive victory over Comoros and South Africa’s determined draw against Egypt set the stage for tense return legs. Meanwhile, Gambia and Gabon’s stalemate left the competition open for their upcoming match, as teams prepare for crucial opportunities to secure qualification.
Original Source: www.cafonline.com
