The qualification campaign for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, PAMOJA 2027, kicked off on Thursday with a heavy slate of opening-round fixtures across the continent. Heavyweights and contenders took to the pitch as the race for spots in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania began in earnest, producing immediate statement victories for Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon, alongside a frustrating stumble for Tunisia.
Ivorians Outmuscle Ghana as Champions Open Strong
In one of the marquee fixtures of the opening night, Côte d’Ivoire handled business against Ghana in Group C, securing a 2-0 victory. The reigning continental champions broke down the Black Stars courtesy of goals from Ibrahim Diaby Yalcouyé and a penalty dispatched by Franck Kessié. The result establishes an early tone for the Ivorians in a competitive group stage.
Cameroon and DR Congo Fire Early Warnings
Over in Group G, Cameroon also delivered a strong opening performance, defeating the Comores 3-1. The Indomitable Lions leaned on established attacking talent to secure the three points, with Bryan Mbeumo and Frank Magri (Namaso) finding the back of the net to comfortably clear their first hurdle on the road to 2027.
Democratic Republic of Congo made an equally assertive statement in Group E, dispatching Equatorial Guinea 2-0. Chancel Mbemba and Yoane Wissa provided the finishing touches to propel the Leopards to the top of their group standings early on.
Five-Goal Thriller Overshadows Tunisia’s Home Stalemate
Not every favorite enjoyed a smooth start, however. Tunisia was held to a frustrating 1-1 draw at home by Uganda in Group H play. The stalemate leaves the Carthage Eagles searching for answers ahead of their next fixture, while Uganda takes a valuable away point back East.
In the same group, Libya and the Botswana played out an entertaining 2-2 draw. Meanwhile, the Sierra Leone and Zimbabwe fixture produced a five-goal thriller, with Zimbabwe edging out a 3-2 victory away from home.
Mauritania and Namibia Secure Opening Wins
Group F action saw Mauritania defeat the Central African Republic 3-1, while Group G featured a narrow 1-0 victory for Namibia over the Congo.
The Road Ahead to 2027 Finals
The express qualification schedule continues as nations vie for places in the 2027 finals hosted jointly by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Teams will return to training and tactical adjustments ahead of the upcoming matchdays in the race for continental qualification.
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