The TotalEnergies CAF CHAN 2025 qualifiers concluded the first leg with notable results. Malawi achieved a 2-0 victory against Comoros, while South Africa drew 1-1 with Egypt. Additionally, Gambia and Gabon finished in a goalless stalemate. The second legs of these fixtures, crucial for qualification, are set for early March.
The first leg of the second qualification stage for the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025 reached a conclusion on Sunday, revealing significant results that will influence the subsequent matches in the tournament. Notably, Malawi achieved a remarkable 2-0 away victory against Comoros, while South Africa managed to draw 1-1 with Egypt. In the earlier match of this round, Gambia and Gabon ended in a goalless stalemate.
Malawi’s performance against Comoros was particularly impressive. They took the lead in the 44th minute, as Binwell Katinji capitalized on a defensive error. Despite Comoros’ attempts to recover in the second half, Malawi’s organized defense proved insurmountable. Zebron Kalima added a second goal for Malawi in stoppage time, solidifying their victory and setting them up favorably for the return leg on March 8.
In the clash between South Africa and Egypt at Orlando Stadium, the match was fiercely competitive. Bafana Bafana displayed a strong attacking lineup but faced a defensive Egyptian side that focused on counter-attacks. After Egypt took the lead with a stunning goal from Hassan Abdelaal in the 75th minute, South Africa equalized through Jamie Webber’s long-range effort, ensuring both teams left with a point ahead of their return leg in Cairo on March 9.
The opening match of the round featured Gambia and Gabon, which ended in a 0-0 draw at Stade Lat Dior in Senegal. Gabon’s solid defense earned them a crucial away point, providing a strategic advantage for the upcoming return leg on March 8, where they will host Gambia. With all teams looking to secure their place in the next stage, the excitement for the second legs continues to build.
In summary, the fixtures thus far have set the stage for critical second-leg matches. Malawi leads against Comoros, while South Africa and Egypt are neck and neck, and Gambia will seek to overturn their stalemate with Gabon. The final outcomes in these upcoming matches will determine which teams advance in the CHAN 2025 qualifiers.
The first leg of the TotalEnergies CAF CHAN 2025 qualifiers ended with significant implications for the return matches. Malawi’s commanding victory over Comoros puts them in a favorable position, while South Africa’s draw with Egypt maintains the competition’s intensity. With Gabon and Gambia also tied, the results lay the groundwork for crucial upcoming fixtures that will ultimately shape the qualifications for CHAN 2025.
Original Source: www.cafonline.com
