Underdogs Roar as AFCON Group Drama Explodes

Mozambique End 39-Year Wait as Gabon Crash Out

Mozambique stunned Gabon in a breathless 3-2 victory to record their first Africa Cup of Nations win in 39 years and eliminate the Panthers from the tournament.

First-half goals from Faisal Bangal and Geny Catamo gave the Mambas a dream start, punishing a Gabon side that looked rattled from the opening exchanges. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, playing through fitness concerns, pulled one back deep into first-half stoppage time to briefly reignite hope.

Any momentum was short-lived. Diogo Calila restored Mozambique’s two-goal cushion shortly after the restart, before substitute Alex Moucketou-Moussounda struck late to set up a frantic finish. Despite late pressure, Gabon could not find an equaliser and were condemned to an early exit after two defeats.

For Mozambique, the result keeps knockout hopes alive and marks a historic night for a nation long starved of AFCON success.

Mahrez Sends Algeria Through with Clinical Penalty

Algeria became the first side from Group E to book their place in the knockout stages after a controlled 1-0 win over Burkina Faso in Rabat.

The decisive moment arrived in the 23rd minute when Rayan Aït-Nouri was fouled in the box, allowing Riyad Mahrez to calmly convert from the penalty spot. It was a moment of composure that underlined Algeria’s tournament maturity.

While Burkina Faso competed well and remained organised, clear chances were limited as Algeria managed the game with confidence, extending their perfect start to two wins from two.

With qualification secured, the 2019 champions now turn their focus to finishing top of the group and shaping a favourable knockout path.

Sudan Strike Back to Revive Qualification Hopes

Sudan responded impressively to their opening defeat by Algeria, claiming a crucial 1-0 victory over Equatorial Guinea to breathe life into their AFCON campaign.

The decisive moment came in the 74th minute when Saúl Coco turned the ball into his own net under pressure, handing Sudan a lead they defended with discipline and resilience.

Equatorial Guinea struggled to break down a well-drilled Sudanese defence, and despite late pressure, were unable to force an equaliser. The result leaves Group E finely balanced heading into the final round of fixtures.

Sudan now head into the final matchday with genuine belief that progression is still within reach.