AFCON 2025: Botswana Become First Team Mathematically Eliminated

AFCON 2025: Botswana Become First Team Mathematically Eliminated

Sampson Adedeji 

Botswana have become the first team to be mathematically eliminated from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations following a second consecutive defeat in the group stage, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Zebras’ exit was confirmed after a narrow 1-0 loss to Benin in their second Group match on Saturday, compounding an opening 3-0 defeat to defending champions Senegal.

Needing at least a point to keep their qualification hopes alive, Botswana put up a resilient display against the Cheetahs but were undone by a decisive goal that sealed their fate in the competition.

With zero points from two matches, Botswana can no longer finish among the top two teams in their group, nor accumulate enough points to be considered for a place among the best third-placed teams, making their elimination certain with one group game still to play.

The early exit marks a disappointing campaign for the Zebras, who had hoped to make a strong impression at the continental showpiece but instead bow out without a point from their first two outings.