Eritrea Makes Impressive Return to AFCON Qualifiers After Nearly Two Decades

For several reasons during the past twenty years, including players deserting the team while on away fixtures, Eritrea has avoided international football and last competed in the qualifiers for the 2008 continental championship.

Coincidentally, Eritreas last AFCON qualifier also faced Eswatini in September 2007, concluding in a 0-0 stalemate. That year, the team secured second place in their qualifying group with nine points, proving their strength as a capable squad prior to their voluntary withdrawal.

The initial goal in Wednesdays match arrived in the 81st minute, courtesy of a corner from Siem Eyob-Abraha that seemed to bypass all players and sail directly into the goal.

The follow-up strike occurred four minutes into stoppage time, with key forward Ali Suleiman embarking on a twisting run along the left wing before unleashing a fierce close-range drive into the upper part of the net.

During their first continental qualifier in almost two decades, the Eritreans squandered a penalty as Suleimans attempt was parried by Eswatinis custodian Mlamuli Makhanya, who plunged low to his right.

The sides will now journey to Eswatini for the return fixture, set for next Tuesday.

This encounter served as the kickoff to the AFCON preliminary qualifiers.

The six outfits advancing from this phase will proceed to the group stage with the other 42 member associations.

The 2027 AFCON will be jointly organised by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, most likely during June or July 2027.