By the end of the weekend, all of Botswana's neighbours had booked their spaces in the 24-team Africa Cup of Nations finals assembly. On Friday, the Zebras had fluffed a glorious opportunity to put their participation in Morocco beyond doubt when they were forced to come from a goal down to draw 1-1 against Mauritania. It brought all sorts of permutations and anxiety as the Zebras departed for an unpredictable task away to Egypt whilst Mauritania fancied their chances against already eliminated Cape Verde in the final round clash. After eight minutes at the June 30 Stadium in Cairo, the Zebras had the dream start after Omaatla Kebatho prodded them in front, but it was level matters just eight minutes later through Mohammed Trezeguet. It remained that way with the Zebras putting on a resilient rear guard action to see through the match.
In the closing stages, Goitseone Phoko had to claw the ball off the line with Egyptian players ready to wheel away in celebration. Egypt had some close moments but the Zebras were not to be denied, and with the full-time whistle, they confirmed their place amongst seven COSAFA members that will travel to Morocco for the AFCON finals next year in December. South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe, which share a common border with Botswana, had all confirmed their places by Sunday. Namibia was Botswana's only neighbour that failed to secure a spot at the biennial finals. After Tuesday, all 24 countries to compete at the AFCON finals were confirmed and Botswana has some mixed company. There are no debutants this year, with Botswana and Comoros having the least appearances, at two each. Egypt at 26, have the highest number of appearances as well as titles (seven). Comoros is the least populated nation going to Morocco, with 852, 000 inhabitants, whilst Nigeria is the most populous at 223.8 million.
