The final day of TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifying in Group E revealed diametrically opposed fortunes: Algeria outclassed Liberia 5-1, capping a resounding, unbeaten campaign, while Togo saved the honor by winning 3-0 against Equatorial Guinea in Lomé.
The incontestable supremacy of Algeria
Already assured of dominating Group E, Algeria showed exemplary professionalism by delivering a flawless performance at the Hocine Aït Ahmed stadium.
The Fennecs, buoyed by a series of 19 matches without defeat in CAN qualifying, once again asserted their hegemony.
Liberia, although largely beaten, found the fault in the 6th minute thanks to a well-aimed shot from Sampson Dweh. However, Algeria was quick to react.
Aïssa Mandi set the record straight in the 20th minute before Riyad Mahrez, with a precise header, allowed his team to take the advantage nine minutes later.
The second half was an Algerian recital, marked by successive goals from Baghdad Bounedjah, Amine Gouiri and Mohammed Amoura. Gouiri’s gem, a clear strike into the left net, was one of the exceptional moments of a match already rich in emotions.
With 16 points on the clock, 16 goals scored and only two conceded, Algeria closes the group stage as a real favorite for the final phase which will be held in Morocco. Its defensive solidity and offensive consistency make it a formidable opponent for CAN 2025.
Togo’s burst of pride
In Lomé, the Éperviers, already eliminated from the race for qualification, nevertheless offered a high-class performance by inflicting a scathing 3-0 defeat on Equatorial Guinea.
This victory, snatched with panache, puts an end to a series of three consecutive losses in qualifying for the CAN. It also illustrates Togo’s ability to transcend itself in adversity.
Yaw Annor, a real dynamite of the Togolese attack, opened the scoring in the 14th minute, while Kevin Denkey, with a sumptuous strike from outside the area, doubled the lead after returning from the locker room. Annor, in a burst of genius, sealed the victory by scoring his second personal goal in the 87th minute.
For Equatorial Guinea, this defeat in no way alters its qualification already acquired for CAN 2025. However, the end of their unbeaten streak of ten matches in qualifying raises questions about certain defensive weaknesses which will deserve particular attention before the tournament.
Group E final standings
- Algeria – 16 points (5 wins, 1 draw)
- Equatorial Guinea – 8 points (2 wins, 2 draws, 2 losses)
- Togo – 5 points (1 victory, 2 draws, 3 defeats)
- Liberia – 4 points (1 victory, 1 draw, 4 defeats)
