South Africa Top Group D with Kampala Win; Botswana Keeps AFCON Dreams Alive

South Africa climbed to the top of Group D in the 2025 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers following a 2-0 victory over Uganda at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Kampala on Friday.

The result moves Bafana Bafana ahead of the Cranes, although both teams have already secured qualification for the tournament in Morocco.

In Group C, Botswana’s 1-1 draw with Mauritania in Francistown keeps their slim hopes of qualification alive. Egypt, already assured of a place in the tournament, will face Cape Verde in the group’s final Matchday 5 fixture.

South Africa vs Uganda: Kampala Dominance

The game in Kampala saw South Africa take control, particularly in the second half, after a cautious and goalless opening period.

Thapelo Morena broke the deadlock early in the second half, calmly finishing from the center of the box to give the visitors the lead. Despite Uganda’s attempts to equalize, South Africa’s defense, marshaled by seasoned players, remained solid.

Bafana Bafana sealed their win in the 89th minute when Patrick Maswanganyi scored off a precise pass from Iqraam Rayners, cementing their place atop Group D. Both South Africa and Uganda are now confirmed participants in Morocco’s showcase tournament.

Botswana vs Mauritania: A Fight for Survival

In Francistown, Botswana faced Mauritania, knowing that only a win would significantly boost their qualification hopes.

Mauritania struck early, with Aboubakary Koïta unleashing a stunning long-range effort in the 7th minute to put the visitors ahead. Botswana responded with resilience, equalizing in the 18th minute when Gilbert Baruti converted from close range after a well-executed set-piece.

The second half was tightly contested, with Botswana pushing for a winner to keep their qualification hopes alive. Tumisang Orebonye and Segolame Boy came close, but Mauritania’s defense and goalkeeper stood firm.

The 1-1 draw means Botswana’s fate now depends on a win in their final group match and favourable results from the Egypt-Cape Verde clash.