In a commanding performance during the final third-round qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Morocco decisively defeated the Central African Republic 5-0, while Guinea showcased their offensive prowess with a 4-1 victory over Ethiopia, highlighting the competition’s intensity and the stakes for participating nations. Azzedine Ounahi starred for Morocco, scoring two goals, with additional contributions from Abde Ezzalzouli, Achraf Hakimi, and Soufiane Rahimi, who each added to the scoreline in a dominant first-half display. This match not only emphasized Morocco’s footballing excellence but also their draw against an opponent that, based on FIFA rankings, is significantly weaker. The game took place in Oujda and underscored Morocco’s quality as they continue their preparations for the tournament they will host, scheduled for December 2025 to January 2026.
Guinea’s triumph over Ethiopia was significantly marked by the standout performance of Serhou Guirassy, who netted a hat-trick—a feat that highlights his potential as a key player for the national team as they navigate the qualifiers. Under the guidance of seasoned coach Michel Dussuyer, who has returned for a fourth term, Guinea found critical momentum following a series of disappointing results. Guirassy’s early penalty set the tone for the match, and his ability to outpace defenders and finish with precision further solidified his status as one of the qualifiers’ top scorers alongside other notable players such as Algeria’s Amine Gouiri and Egypt’s Mahmoud ‘Trezeguet’ Hassan. This victory propelled Guinea into a better position in their group and provided a much-needed confidence boost after struggling to find the back of the net in their previous matches.
As the qualifications progressed, Morocco’s victory over Central African Republic matched the largest winning margin seen in the qualifying round, which South Africa had established just a day earlier. With these performances, Morocco continues to exhibit their dominance in African football, firmly establishing themselves as one of the favorites heading into the upcoming AFCON tournament. Their strategic decision to opt for competitive matches, rather than friendlies, has afforded them rich experience and preparedness, putting them in a position where they can focus on refining their skill sets without the pressure of qualifying. Currently, Morocco sits at the top of their group with nine points, while other nations, including Gabon and the Central African Republic, vie for the remaining qualification spot, adding tension to the closing matches of the group stage.
Guinea, on the other hand, while experiencing resurgence, faces stiff competition in their group led by DR Congo, who currently tops the table with a perfect record. After a shaky start to the qualifiers, where they struggled to score, Guinea’s recent offensive output could signal a turning point as they prepare for their crucial upcoming tie against Tanzania. This match may very well determine who advances alongside DR Congo from Group H, underscoring the high stakes of the qualification process. Ethiopia, having finally scored with Kenean Markneh’s goal, will be looking to build on that and gain momentum, even as they face stiff challenges in future matches.
The larger context of these matches speaks to the evolving landscape of African football, with nations like Morocco and Guinea striving to cement their legacies while managing the pressures of competition. As host of the AFCON in 2025, Morocco is not only aiming for success but also presenting a showcase for the African footballing community. With several other nations demonstrating their prowess, the tournament will likely be a platform for emerging talents and seasoned players alike to shine on a continental stage.
In anticipation of future qualifying rounds, the upcoming fixtures promise to shape the outcome of the tournament further. Matchday 4 features a variety of contests, starting with the clash between Burundi and Burkina Faso, leading into an action-packed week’s worth of games. As the qualifiers near their conclusion, the implications of each match will have profound effects on the teams’ standings and ultimately on their aspirations to compete in a prestigious tournament at home or away. The journey to the AFCON is as much about strategy as it is about talent, and this year’s qualifiers have illustrated the fierce rivalry and determination that characterize African football on the path to the continental championship.
