'Rivals Reunite' - Bafana Bafana, Zambia join Nigeria's Super Eagles to book AFCON2025 tickets

Nigeria and South Africa are preparing to rekindle their rivalry after the explosive encounter between them at the AFCON 2023. (Photo Credit: Imago)

'Rivals Reunite' - Bafana Bafana, Zambia join Nigeria's Super Eagles to book AFCON2025 tickets

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 12:09 - 16.11.2024

South Africa and Zambia have joined Nigeria's Super Eagles to book their tickets to the AFCON2025 in Morocco.

Zambia and South Africa have joined Nigeria in qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, solidifying their places in the tournament set to take place in Morocco. 

The qualification comes after a series of crucial matches in round five that determined the final standings in their respective groups.

Nigeria had already secured their spot in the tournament before their match against Benin Republic, thanks to Libya's narrow victory over Rwanda, which confirmed Nigeria's position at the top of Group D. 

The Super Eagles finished their qualifiers with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Benin, where Victor Osimhen scored a late equaliser, further cementing his status as a key player for the national team.

Victor Osimhen celebrates his 23rd goal for Nigeria Super Eagles. (Photo Credit: Osimhen/IG)

Meanwhile, Zambia clinched their qualification with an important hard-fought 1-0 victory over defending champions Ivory Coast. 

The Copper Bullets' win was marked by a goal from Kennedy Musonda, ensuring they would be among the contenders in Morocco. 

Zambia celebrates.

This victory not only secured Zambia's place but also highlighted their resilience and determination throughout the qualifiers.

South Africa also confirmed their qualification after a solid performance in Group K. 

South Africa seals AFCON2025 spot

They replaced Uganda at the top of the group following a convincing 2-0 win against their rivals in Kampala. 

Goals from substitutes Thapelo Morena and Patrick Maswanganyi sealed the deal for Bafana Bafana, with another chance for the team to make an impact at AFCON 2025.

The qualification of Zambia and South Africa adds to an exciting lineup for the tournament, which will feature a total of 24 teams competing for continental glory. 

With Nigeria already through and now joined by Zambia and South Africa, fans can look forward to thrilling matches as these nations aim to showcase their footballing prowess on the African stage.

Khuliso Mudau playing for South Africa against Nigeria at the 2023 AFCON | Imago

There are still several spots up for grabs, with other nations vying for qualification in the final rounds of matches. 

But whatever the case, the stage is set for an exhilarating tournament that promises to capture the hearts of football fans across the continent.