Botswana has secured a historic return to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time in 12 years after drawing 1-1 with Egypt at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium in Cairo. The draw helped the Zebras secure second place in Group C, ensuring their qualification for the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The match brought early drama, with Botswana taking the lead in the eighth minute through Omaatla Kebatho. A precise cross from Kabelo Seakanyeng set up Kebatho for an emphatic finish into the top right corner, stunning the home crowd. Egypt responded quickly, equalizing just seven minutes later with a fine strike from Trezeguet. His right-footed effort from outside the box found the bottom left corner, bringing the match back to level terms.

Despite both teams creating chances in the first half, the score remained 1-1 at the break. In the second half, Egypt dominated possession and pressed for a winner, but Botswana’s defense, led by goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko, stood firm. Phoko made crucial saves to deny Egypt’s Omar Marmoush and Ibrahim Adel, while Botswana focused on a disciplined defensive performance, knowing a draw would secure their qualification.

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Egypt pushed for a late goal, even adding seven minutes of injury time, but they couldn’t break through Botswana’s resilient defense. As the final whistle blew, Botswana had made history by securing their second-ever AFCON appearance, marking their first qualification since 2012.

Meanwhile, in the group’s other match, Mauritania defeated Cape Verde 1-0 in Nouakchott, thanks to a first-half goal from Mohamed Soueid. The win moved Mauritania up to third place, while Cape Verde ended their campaign at the bottom of the group.

Final Group C Standings:

  • Egypt – 14 points (6 matches played)
  • Botswana – 8 points (6 matches played)
  • Mauritania – 7 points (6 matches played)
  • Cape Verde – 4 points (6 matches played)