Eritrea achieved a significant milestone by defeating Eswatini 2-0 in the first leg of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027 Preliminary Round qualifier, held on March 25, 2026, at Stade d’Honneur in Meknes, Morocco.
The match saw Eritrea take the lead with a goal from Siem Eyob-Abraha in the 81st minute, followed by a second goal from Ali Suleiman during added time. Despite the victory, Eritrea missed a penalty earlier in the match, which was saved by Eswatini’s goalkeeper Mlamuli Makhanya.
This match marked Eritrea’s first continental qualifier in nearly 20 years, with their last appearance in a similar context dating back to September 2007 against Eswatini. The return leg is scheduled for March 31, 2026, at Somhlolo National Stadium in Lobamba.
The significance of this match extends beyond the scoreline, as it represents a return to competitive football for Eritrea on the continental stage. The six teams that advance from this preliminary round will join 42 other Member Associations in the Group Phase of the tournament.
The upcoming continental finals are set to be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania next year, adding to the anticipation surrounding this qualifier.
Initial reactions to Eritrea’s performance have been positive, highlighting the team’s resilience and determination to return to the forefront of African football.
As the teams prepare for the return leg, both sides will be looking to capitalize on their respective strengths and strategies. Eswatini will aim to overturn the deficit, while Eritrea will seek to maintain their advantage.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes in team line-ups or strategies for the upcoming match.
