Ethiopia and Malawi draw opens the door for Guinea

Naby Keita+'s (2nd R) Guinea will be at the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast | Photo Credit: Courtesy

AFCON 2023Q Ethiopia and Malawi draw opens the door for Guinea

Shafic Kiyaga 07:29 - 21.06.2023

The team's qualification came as a result of a goalless draw between Ethiopia and Malawi, which mathematically sealed Guinea's spot in the prestigious tournament.

Guinea's national football team, the Syli National, has booked its ticket to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The team's qualification came as a result of a goalless draw between Ethiopia and Malawi, which mathematically sealed Guinea's spot in the prestigious tournament.

In a crucial Group D qualifier, Ethiopia and Malawi faced off at the Maputo Stadium in Mozambique, both teams vying for a chance to secure their qualification.

However, their hopes were dashed as they battled to a stalemate, effectively eliminating them from contention.

The real story unfolded elsewhere, as Guinea celebrated their qualification without even kicking a ball, becoming the fifteenth team to secure a spot at the 2023 AFCON

For Malawi, the equation was simple – a win would have kept their dreams of AFCON qualification alive.

It would have set up a thrilling showdown against Guinea on the final day of qualifying, with a chance to secure a place in the continental tournament.

However, their efforts to break the deadlock against the determined Ethiopian defence fell short.wil

Despite dominating possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities, Malawi couldn't find the breakthrough they desperately needed.

Even tactical changes made by coach Patrick Mabedi during halftime failed to alter the scoreline, resulting in a frustrating draw for the Flames.

As the final round of qualifiers approaches, Malawi and Ethiopia will now shift their focus to finishing the campaign on a positive note.

Ethiopia visits record African champions Egypt in September, while Malawi will host Guinea in Blantyre in the final round of qualifiers.