CAF CHAN 2025 Qualifiers: Malawi dominate Comoros

From Kunle Solaja

The first leg of the second qualification stage for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025 concluded on Sunday, with key results shaping the road to the next round.

Malawi stunned Comoros with a decisive 2-0 away victory, while South Africa came from behind to secure a 1-1 draw against Egypt.

The first fixture of the round, played on Friday, saw Gambia and Gabon share the spoils in a goalless encounter.

Malawi Take Command Against Comoros

Playing away, Malawi impressed with a clinical display, defeating Comoros 2-0

The visitors took control in the 44th minute, when Binwell Katinji capitalized on a defensive lapse to put Malawi ahead just before halftime.

Comoros attempted to fight back in the second half, but their inability to break through a well-organized Malawian defense proved costly.

Any hopes of a comeback were dashed in stoppage time, when Zebron Kalima sealed the victory with a second goal in the 90th minute.

With a two-goal cushion, Malawi will now look to finish the job at home in the return leg on March 8.

Meanwhile, Comoros face an uphill battle to overturn the deficit.

Gambia and Gabon Play Out Goalless Stalemate

In the opening match of the round, Gambia and Gabon played out a 0-0 draw at the Stade Lat Dior in Thiès, Senegal.

Gabon’s defensive solidity ensured they left with a valuable away result, giving them the advantage heading into the return leg on March 8, where they will host Gambia with the opportunity to progress.

With the first legs completed, all six teams will now turn their attention to the crucial second-leg fixtures, where places in the next phase of CHAN 2025 qualification will be decided.

First Leg Results: