By Victor Kanayo
Three more countries – Ghana, Angola and Tanzania have qualified for the 2023 African Cup of Nations scheduled for Cote d’ivoire.
They booked their place after playing their qualifier matches.
Ghana’s Slim Passage
Ghana narrowly scaled through after a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over Central African Republic.
The results means Central African Republic finish third despite leading just before half-time of the game in Kumasi.
They will be devastated to miss out on a first ever Nations Cup appearance after being ahead at half-time.
But Chris Hughton’s Ghana side ultimately got the job done to book their place at next year’s finals in Cote d’Ivoire.
Trailing to Louis Mafouta’s first-half goal in Kumasi, the Black Stars were staring elimination in the face.
But West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus stepped up to curl home a vital free-kick just before the break to level the scores.
The 23-year-old’s clutch intervention sparked wild celebrations as qualification edged closer.
Ghana completed the turnaround late on when substitute Ernest Nuamah tapped home to make it 2-1.
Angola’s Return
The victory saw Ghana top Group E, with Angola joining them in qualifying after a 0-0 draw with Madagascar.
Angola have now secured their return to the continental showpiece since 2013 after missing the last three tournaments.
Needing just a point to finish second in Group E, the Palancas Negras comfortably held on to book their spot.
Tanzania’s Third Entry
Also, Tanzania have qualified for their third Nation Cup tournament after a goalless draw against Algeria.
It means east Africans side produced a dogged, determined display to frustrate their illustrious hosts and gain the point they needed.
Tanzania’s resolute performance denied an Algeria side who had already booked their qualification as Group F winners.
The draw ends Tanzania’s AFCON exile, with the Taifa Stars returning to the continent’s showpiece tournament for only the third time ever.
The last time they played at AFCON was in 2019.
