Novices Will Be Present

The outcome of the qualifying campaign for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to be played next year in Cameroon produced big surprises. Countries like Comoros and Gambia whose names have never been heard in the history of this prestigious continental tournament will have the opportunity to showcase their football knowhow on Cameroonian soil after booking their qualification spots. Meanwhile, nations who have had long periods of participation droughts and very few AFCON outings like Cape Verde, Mauritania, and Malawi equally booked spots in next year’s AFCON.

Comoros

Comoros performance in the qualification round for the AFCON, according experts, is a true example to justify the adages that “there is no small nation in football” and that “the ball is always round.”  The country is one of the continents smallest and has a population of less than a million but had a memorable result in the qualifying campaign including victories over Togo and Kenya and a draw with one of Africa’s finest, Egypt. With this performance, Comoros got the second spot in Group G with nine points, four points behind group leaders, Egypt. The “small Comoros” foiled the qualification chances for renowned nations like Kenya and Togo who ended up with seven and two points respectively.

Gambia

One of the big surprises of this year’s AFCON qualification is Gambia. For the first time in history, the Scorpions of Gambia will be taking part in the continental event. What is more amazing ...