2023 Afcon qualifiers begin with Angola, Libya & Ghana victories

by Staff Reporter

Wednesday Jun 01, 2022. 23:56

Group E got off to an exciting start when Angola hosted Central Africa Republic at Estadio 11 de November, with the host nation coming out on top in a 2-1 victory.

Angola had to fight their way back into the tie and headed into the half-time break trailing by the odd goal. Central African Republic took the lead in the 32nd minute, courtesy of Samuel Nlend’s right-footed shot.

After ringing in the changes just after the 64th minute, Angola’s pressure paid off when M’Bala Nzola’s header on the left side of the six-yard box drew the countries level. The home side took the lead just four minutes later thanks to Gelson Dala’s goal, as Angola began their 2023 Afcon qualifiers on a positive note.

Over at the Martyrs of February Stadium, Benina, Libya claimed maximum points in their 1-0 win over Botswana at home. The hosts were the more assertive side throughout the encounter, while Botswana were not far behind on the shots statistic.

Following a set-piece situation, Saleh Taher Saeid’s goal in the 54th minute was the difference in the tie, as Libya took charge of Group J.

As a keenly anticipated tie, Ghana hosted Madagascar at the Cape Coasts Sports Stadium. The Black Stars showcased their dominance, with the 3-0 scoreline painting the picture.

For Ghana, It was one way traffic for most of the encounter, while Madagascar were reduced to counter attacks in moments of the match. Goals from Mohammed Kudus, Felix Afena-Gyan and Osman Bukari saw the Group E favourites get off to a bright start.

Results:

Wednesday, June 1

Libya 1-0 Botswana

Angola 2-1 Central African Republic

Ghana 3-0 Madagascar