ABUJA: Ebola-ravaged Guinea joined Ivory Coast, Mali and Ghana in qualifying for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations yesterday but defending champions Nigeria crashed out.
The Nigerians were held to a 2-2 draw by already qualified South Africa on home turf in Uyo to finish out of contention in third in Group A.
Congo, 1-0 winners over Sudan, secured the runners-up spot and one of the final qualifying berths.
The final spot is up for grabs later on Wednesday when Egypt must win in Tunisia by two clear goals to deprive the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The DRC are on nine points, after beating Sierra Leone 3-1, and have a goal difference of plus one with Egypt on six points and an even goal difference in the battle for the best third place finisher.
Tokelo Rantie gave South Africa the lead against Nigeria in the 42nd minute, when he sped past Azubuike Egwuekwe from the left flank before he fired past goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama.
Rantie scored his second goal in the 48th minute, when he sliced through the entire Nigeria defence before slotting home.
Nigeria pulled a goal back in the 68th minute through Sone Aluko after a rebound from a shot by Ike Uche which crashed against the post.
The Hull City winger then drew the home team level in stoppage time, but it was too little, too late for the outgoing champions. AFP
