The TotalEnergies CAF CHAN 2025 qualifiers saw Malawi prevail over Comoros with a 2-0 victory, while South Africa held Egypt to a 1-1 draw. Gambia and Gabon ended their match in a goalless stalemate. Teams are now preparing for crucial return legs in March, with progression to the next round at stake.
The first leg of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025 qualifiers concluded recently, yielding significant results. Malawi achieved an impressive 2-0 away victory against Comoros, while South Africa managed to hold Egypt to a 1-1 draw in their match. This stage of qualifiers has set the stage for potential outcomes as teams prepare for the return legs.
Malawi’s performance against Comoros was dominant as they secured a 2-0 victory. The turning point occurred in the 44th minute when Binwell Katinji took advantage of a defensive error to score just before halftime. Though Comoros sought to mount a comeback, their efforts were thwarted by a steadfast Malawian defense, ultimately culminating in a second goal by Zebron Kalima in stoppage time, solidifying Malawi’s advantage.
In another exciting match, South Africa faced Egypt at Orlando Stadium, displaying resilience to earn a 1-1 draw. The Bafana Bafana, under Coach Molefi Ntseki, showcased a robust attacking strategy, with notable efforts from players such as Monnapule Saleng and Neo Maema. Despite a low-scoring affair, Egypt struck first with a 75th-minute goal from Hassan Abdelaal, only for South Africa to respond shortly thereafter with an equalizer from Jamie Webber.
Additionally, Gambia and Gabon played to a goalless draw in their opening fixture. Gabon’s strong defensive performance allowed them to leave with a valuable away point, setting them up favorably heading into the return leg on March 8. All six competing teams now look forward to their critical second-leg matchups where advancement to the next round of qualification is at stake.
The first leg results were:
– Gambia 0-0 Gabon (February 28, 2025)
– Comoros 0-2 Malawi (March 2, 2025)
– South Africa 1-1 Egypt (March 2, 2025)
The anticipated second leg fixtures are as follows:
– Malawi vs. Comoros – March 8, 2025 | 13:00 GMT
– Gabon vs. Gambia – March 8, 2025 | 15:00 GMT
– Egypt vs. South Africa – March 9, 2025 | 19:30 GMT
With the first legs completed, the competition for qualification to CHAN 2025 remains open, as all teams prepare for decisive encounters ahead.
The recent matches in the TotalEnergies CAF CHAN 2025 qualifiers showcased notable performances, particularly from Malawi and South Africa. Malawi’s commanding win sets them in a strong position, while South Africa’s draw against Egypt highlights their competitive spirit. Gambia and Gabon’s stalemate also emphasizes the tight nature of the qualifiers. As teams gear up for the return fixtures, the quest for a place in CHAN 2025 continues to be intensely contested.
Original Source: www.cafonline.com