RSL standouts light up 2027 AFCON qualifying across Africa | OneFootball

Roshn Saudi League players made telling contributions as 2027 AFCON qualifying kicked off, from debut goals to clean sheets and late rescue acts.

According to spl.com.sa, the road to the finals in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania began last week, with RSL names prominent across the continent.

For Nigeria, George Ilenikhena earned a first call-up and scored on debut in a 2-1 home win over Madagascar in Uyo. The Super Eagles then lost heavily to Guinea-Bissau, featuring Al Fayha’s Alfa Semedo, with Ilenikhena a late substitute. Only one team qualifies from Group L, which includes hosts Tanzania.

For holders Morocco, Al Hilal’s Yassine Bono was flawless, keeping two clean sheets in successive 2-0 victories against Gabon and Lesotho.

Gambia, who missed 2025, opened with six points by beating Somalia and Ghana, captain Omar Colley, Al Fayha’s recent signing, leading from the front after helping Diriyah Club’s historic promotion.

Algeria beat Zambia 3-1, then trailed 2-0 to Burundi inside 15 minutes, but escaped Bujumbura with a point when Diriyah Club recruit Adil Boulbina smashed in a 30-yard free-kick just after the hour.

Rwanda, AFCON finalists only once this century in 2004, began with two wins, including a comeback 2-1 success over Cape Verde, anchored by Al Hazem newcomer Bonheur Mugisha, who started both.

Comoros sit second in Group G after two matchdays, following a 1-0 win against Namibia, the match Zaydou Youssouf started, creating two chances and teeing up Benjaloud Youssouf early in the second half.

Source: spl.com.sa

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