Eritrea vs Eswatini: Ending an 18-Year AFCON Drought
On Wednesday, the eyes of African football will be on Meknes, Morocco, as Eritrea and Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) clash in the first leg of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier. This match marks a significant moment for Eritrea, representing their first attempt to qualify for the prestigious tournament since 2008.
A Match Played Away From Home
Due to the lack of an international-standard venue within Eritrea, the preliminary round first leg will be hosted at the 20,000-seat Stade d’Honneur in Morocco. The return leg is scheduled for March 31st in Eswatini, with the aggregate winner advancing to the group stage – a format consisting of 12 four-nation mini-leagues starting in September.
The Red Sea Camels’ Long Absence
Known affectionately as the Red Sea Camels, Eritrea’s last appearance in the AFCON qualifying stages came in 2008, where they secured a draw against Swaziland. The subsequent nine Cups of Nations have seen Eritrea absent, a situation shrouded in mystery. The prevailing belief centers around players seeking political asylum while participating in international matches. The United Nations estimates that approximately 80 footballers and coaches have defected, citing political repression and mandatory, lengthy military service as primary motivations.
A New Era for Eritrean Football
President Isaias Afwerki has governed Eritrea since its independence from Ethiopia in 1993, and human rights organizations consistently characterize his rule as “highly repressive.” However, a shift appears to be underway. Eritrean National Football Federation President Paulos Andemariam announced before the 2025 Cup of Nations that the nation would re-engage with AFCON qualification. “After positive discussions with our government, we have registered to play in the 2027 AFCON, and I believe we will have a strong team, including many Eritreans playing outside Africa,” he stated.
New Leadership and a Diverse Squad
Recently, Ermias Tewelde was replaced as head coach by Hesham Yakan, a former defender for the renowned Cairo club Zamalek and a member of the Egypt squad at the 1990 World Cup. Yakan has assembled a 24-man squad comprising 10 domestic players and Eritreans based in Australia, Egypt, England, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, the Philippines, and Sweden. Siem Eyob-Abraha, currently with Sheffield United in England (previously part of Manchester United’s youth system), and Ali Sulieman, a striker based in Egypt, are expected to lead the attack.
Eswatini’s Challenge
Eswatini, despite 16 previous attempts, has yet to qualify for the Cup of Nations. Coach Sifiso Ntibane has selected a squad of 13 local players and seven professionals playing in South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The two previous encounters between the nations, both 2008 Cup of Nations qualifiers, ended in goalless draws.
Challenges for Other Nations
Eritrea isn’t the only nation facing logistical hurdles. Djibouti, Seychelles, Lesotho, and Sao Tome e Principe are also unable to host their home matches due to inadequate stadium facilities. Security concerns have forced Somalia to relocate their tie against Mauritius to Maputo, Mozambique.
Looking Ahead to 2027
Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda are jointly hosting the 2027 Cup of Nations tournament. The dates for the tournament are yet to be announced. This AFCON qualifier represents more than just a football match for Eritrea; it’s a symbol of hope and a potential turning point for the nation’s sporting future.
Further Reading: FIFA Official Website
