AFCON 2027 qualifiers: Burkina Faso, DR Congo move top after narrow wins

Burkina Faso earned a vital three points away from home against the Central African Republic. The Stallions controlled long periods of possession and found the crucial breakthrough to claim a narrow victory.

The Central African Republic fought back late in search of an equalizer, but Burkina Faso's defensive resilience secured a clean sheet and boosted their qualification hopes.

Equatorial Guinea got their qualification campaign back on track with a hard-fought 1-0 triumph over Sierra Leone. Loren Zuniga made an instant impact by scoring in the very first minute of the match.

Equatorial Guinea then produced a disciplined defensive display, managing the remainder of the contest effectively to withstand Sierra Leone's attacking efforts and secure all three points.

"I am very happy for this group; we have gained experience and secured a precious victory through collective work. We worked every day to be efficient, and this win validates what we have been building together," said Equatorial Guinea head coach Juan Micha.

DR Congo produced a solid performance to defeat Zimbabwe 2-1 on the road. Yoane Wissa opened the scoring for the Leopards in the 30th minute before Samuel Moutoussamy doubled the lead on the stroke of halftime.

Zimbabwe mounted a late push and pulled one back through Marshall Munetsi in stoppage time, but DR Congo held firm to secure victory.

"We knew we had to play a good game for us to win. In matches like this, focus and efficiency from the beginning are essential to taking control," said DR Congo head coach Sebastien Desabre.

Tunisia's winless streak continued after being held to a 2-2 draw by Botswana in Rades. Thatayaone Kgamanyane gave Botswana an early shock lead, but Hazem Mastouri responded with two goals to put Tunisia ahead.

However, Lebogang Ditsele struck on the hour mark for the visitors to level the score and force both sides to share the points.