Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of the Congo began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaigns with victories on Thursday, while Uganda earned an away draw against Tunisia.
The matches formed part of the opening round of the AFCON PAMOJA 2027 qualifiers, involving 48 teams across 12 groups.
Côte d’Ivoire defeat Ghana
Côte d’Ivoire secured a 2–0 victory over Ghana in their Group C encounter in Bouaké.
Malick Yalcouyé opened the scoring shortly before half-time on his international debut. Captain Franck Kessié doubled the advantage from the penalty spot in the 58th minute.
The victory gave the Elephants three points from their opening qualifier, while Ghana must now seek a response in their next group match.
Cameroon overcome Comoros
Cameroon defeated Comoros 3–1 at the Roumdé Adjia Stadium in Garoua to make a winning start in Group G.
David Nyengue headed Cameroon ahead in the 39th minute before Bryan Mbeumo extended the lead shortly after the interval.
Warmed Omari pulled a goal back for Comoros, but Danny Namaso scored during the closing stages to secure the victory for the Indomitable Lions.
DR Congo begin with home victory
DR Congo recorded a 2–0 home win over Equatorial Guinea in Kinshasa.
Captain Chancel Mbemba headed in the opening goal after four minutes, while Yoane Wissa added the second with 18 minutes remaining.
According to a Reuters match report, DR Congo also struck the woodwork twice and had two efforts ruled out for offside.
The result placed the Congolese side in a strong early position in Group E.
Uganda earn point in Tunisia
Uganda came from behind to secure a 1–1 draw against Tunisia in their Group H opener in Radès.
Alaa Arous gave Tunisia the lead in the 12th minute, but Rogers Mato equalised for Uganda in the 68th minute following an assist from Nathan Asiimwe.
Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania have already qualified for the tournament as co-hosts. However, the three countries are participating in the qualifying competition, with special qualification arrangements applying to their respective groups.
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will be staged in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda from 19 June to 17 July 2027.
