Eritrea have reached the main group stage of Africa Cup of Nations qualifying for the first time in 19 years, defeating Eswatini 4-1 on aggregate. Forward Ali Sulieman was the standout performer, scoring three goals across both legs. The Red Sea Camels, ranked 184th in the world by Fifa, overcame significant logistical challenges to secure their historic progression.

Without an internationally approved stadium, Eritrea played their home fixture in Morocco, winning 2-0 with goals from Sulieman and Sheffield United's Siem Eyob-Abraha. The team followed up with a 2-1 victory in Eswatini, with the hosts scoring a consolation in the 96th minute. This marks Eritrea's first competitive match since 2020, highlighting their return to international football after years of withdrawal.

Burundi, Ethiopia, Lesotho, Somalia and South Sudan joined Eritrea in advancing to the group stage, which begins in September. Afcon 2027 will be the first tournament hosted by three nations - Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Eritrea's qualification represents a significant achievement for a nation that has never reached the Afcon finals since gaining independence in 1993, despite coming close in 2008.