By Joseph S. Conteh
Sierra Leone’s hopes of securing a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations have been a blow following Zambia’s unexpected 1-0 victory over the reigning African champions, Ivory Coast, on Friday.
Zambia’s stunning triumph has booked their place in the upcoming continental tournament, leaving Sierra Leone with a daunting task in their final group stage match against the Zambians on Tuesday.
With Zambia already confirmed as qualifiers, the upcoming encounter between the two sides will be a mere formality. Ivory Coast, on the other hand, had already booked their ticket to the 2025 AFCON but will now face Chad in their final group G match.
The loss for Ivory Coast, who are the current African champions, has been a significant setback in their preparations for the upcoming tournament. Sierra Leone, who were hoping to secure their own spot in the competition, will now face an uphill battle to overcome Zambia in their final group stage fixture.
The results have undoubtedly shifted the dynamics of the group, and Sierra Leone’s dreams of AFCON qualification are now hanging by a thread.
