By Mbongeni Vilakati
MBABANE – The Senior Men’s National Team, Sihlangu Semnikati, face a challenging journey in the 2025 Africa Cup Of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers as they are the lowest-ranked country of the four.
Sihlangu was drawn against formidable opponents Mali, Guinea-Bissau and Mozambique in the draw that was conducted on Thursday (July 4, 2024) afternoon in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Mali stands as the group favourites, with 50th position in the latest FIFA rankings, as their squad is packed with experienced players and talent. The Eagles, as they are affectionately known, consist of over 13 players in Europe’s top leagues, including Premier League’s Yves Bissouma and Bundesliga’s Amadou Haidara.
Meanwhile, Mozambique and Guinea-Bissau are currently ranked at 103 and 115, respectively in the recently updated FIFA rankings. Sihlangu is ranked 154 after dropping due to poor performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
Mozambique brings international players such as Almeria’s Bruno Langa and South African giants Kaizer Chief’s Edmilson Dove into the mix. Guinea-Bissau features European-based players including Olympique Lyon’s Mama Balde making them a tricky opponent.
With the qualifiers set to begin during the international break in September, Sihlangu is gearing up for a series of matches, with the top two countries making it to the main tournament to be held in Morocco, in 2025/26.
Sihlangu was recently eliminated in the COSAFA Cup, recording goalless draws against Mozambique and Botswana, and a 1-0 defeat to South Africa in Group A.
