While Group E finished up play in 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying on Sunday there were two other matches going on at the same time. Malawi started off Group D play with a 2-1 victory over Ethiopia to obtain three points at home. Frank “Gabadinho” Mhango came through to convert two first half penalty kicks and give the Flames a two-goal edge by halftime in Lilongwe.
Abubeker Nasir pegged one back from the penalty spot for the Walias in the second half but despite dominating the ball, Ethiopia could not find another to earn a point on the road. Group D finishes up its first round of games later when Egypt hosts Guinea.
Group J favorites Tunisia traveled to Botswana for the start of the second round of games and the hosts held the Carthage Eagles in a game of two halves. Tunisia had the better of the first half and were unfortunate not to have a halftime lead with Firas Ben Larby missing two guilt-edged chances including a shot that went off the crossbar.
Botswana’s best opportunity arrived in the 25th minute when a teasing cross from Mothusi Johnson on the left wing found striker Tumisang Orebonye for a diving header that was repelled by Tunisia keeper Bechir Ben Saïd. The hosts performed better after halftime but nearly fell to defeat when a 90th minute lofted ball from Tunisia midfielder Aïssa Laidouni was knocked down for center back Bilel Ifa, who had a golden look on goal but sent his shot off the crossbar. Tunisia top the group with four points and Botswana obtain their first point from two games.
Highlights from both games are below.
Malawi 2-1 Ethiopia
Botswana 0-0 Tunisia
