AFCON 2027 qualification: Eritrea earn precious point in Kenya on their return

26.09.26 FT AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Kenya

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Eritrea

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Eritrea brought a point back from Nairobi on their return to the group stage of the AFCON qualifiers. Facing Kenya on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Nyayo National Stadium, the Red Sea Camels secured a 1-1 draw in their first Group D outing.

Eritrea believed for a long time that they could leave with all three points. After taking the lead, the national team resisted the Kenyan attacks before seeing the Harambee Stars equalize in the final minutes. The outcome leaves the visitors with regrets, but this away point provides a solid foundation for the rest of their campaign.

A return after 19 years away

The match above all marked Eritrea’s return to the group stage of the AFCON qualifiers after 19 years away. The national team had last reached this stage during qualifying for AFCON 2008, before no longer participating in or withdrawing from several campaigns.

To return to this group stage, Eritrea had to go through the preliminary round of the 2027 AFCON. They eliminated Eswatini in March with two victories, 2-0 in the first leg and then 2-1 in the return leg, for a 4-1 aggregate win across the two matches.

A place to claim in Group D

The Group D context gives this result even greater significance. Kenya are automatically qualified for AFCON 2027 as co-hosts alongside Tanzania and Uganda. Therefore, only one team among South Africa, Guinea and Eritrea will secure the group’s other qualification spot.

With this point earned in Nairobi, Eritrea begin their campaign unbeaten. They will follow it up on Wednesday, September 30, with a match against South Africa in Cairo, on neutral ground.

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations