With under seven days remaining before the Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco, a number of leading sides wrapped up their preparations with demanding warm-up fixtures on Tuesday. Matches staged in Johannesburg, Murcia, and Cairo gave managers one last opportunity to judge readiness, combinations, and match sharpness.
With under seven days remaining before the Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco, a number of leading sides wrapped up their preparations with demanding warm-up fixtures on Tuesday. Matches staged in Johannesburg, Murcia, and Cairo gave managers one last opportunity to judge readiness, combinations, and match sharpness.
South Africa, DR Congo, and Egypt emerged with confidence-boosting wins, while Ghana, Zambia, and Nigeria focused on testing options and fine-tuning structure. The encounters delivered valuable insight into physical condition and tactical balance ahead of the journey north.
Bafana Bafana concluded their buildup with a narrow 1-0 success against Ghana’s Black Galaxies at Dobsonville Stadium. The contest opened cautiously, with both teams well organized and limiting space, resulting in a balanced first period with few clear chances.
After the interval, South Africa found the breakthrough in the 57th minute. Sipho Mbule capitalized on his moment to put the hosts ahead and shift the momentum of the match.
Ghana pushed forward in search of a response, fashioning opportunities through Adams and Dogli. Despite increased pressure and attacking intent, the Black Galaxies were unable to find an equalizer.
The outcome leaves coach Hugo Broos encouraged ahead of departure to Morocco, while Ghana turns attention to sharpening their attacking efficiency before upcoming World Cup qualifying fixtures.
The Leopards delivered a disciplined and confident display to overcome Zambia 2-0 at the Pinatar Arena in Murcia. Sébastien Desabre’s team imposed themselves early and struck first in the 21st minute, with Arthur Masuaku finishing after a sustained spell in the attacking third.
Zambia responded with determination and energy, attempting to disrupt the Congolese rhythm. However, a compact defensive shape limited clear openings and frustrated repeated advances.
Following the restart, the Chipolopolo enjoyed more of the ball and attempted 14 efforts on goal, yet accuracy and penetration proved elusive against a well-drilled back line.
DR Congo confirmed the result in the 72nd minute when Rocky Bushiri Kiranga added a second, highlighting both resilience at the back and efficiency on the break as AFCON approaches.
The Pharaohs signed off their preparations with a 2-1 win over Nigeria at Cairo International Stadium. The hosts took the lead in the 27th minute, as Mahmoud Saber converted from close range after a low delivery by Zizo.
Nigeria restored parity before halftime when Chidozie Awaziem found the net, taking advantage of a mistake by goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy to level the score.
Early in the second period, Egypt struck again. Mostafa Mohamed completed a rapid transition in the 53rd minute, putting the home side back in front.
Head coach Hossam Hassan rotated his squad through several changes to control workloads, and Egypt managed the closing stages with composure, ending their warm-up schedule on a positive note before travelling to Morocco.
