Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers: Algeria and Morocco Secure Opening Wins

Algeria defeated Zambia 3-1 in their Group J opener, while Morocco topped Group B with a 2-0 victory over Gabon. Angola drew 0-0 with Egypt in Group D, and Burkina Faso and Benin played to a 1-1 draw in Group G. Mali beat Cape Verde 3-1 in Group L.

Algeria’s Strong Start Under Hamdani

Algeria began their TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, PAMOJA 2027 qualifiers campaign with a commanding 3-1 victory over Zambia at the Tizi Ouzou Stadium. Juan Hadjam scored early, but Zambia equalized in the 57th minute through Fashion Sakala. Ibrahim Maza and Anis Hadj Moussa then secured the win for Algeria in the 67th and 74th minutes, respectively, marking a successful debut under new coach Ibrahim Hamdani.

Benin Hold Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso and Benin shared the points in a 1-1 draw in Group G. Lassina Traoré opened the scoring for Burkina Faso with a penalty in the 20th minute, but Ayegun Tosin equalized with a penalty in the 68th minute.

Mali Claim Victory Over Cape Verde

Mali defeated Cape Verde 3-1 in Group L. Martial Tia opened the scoring in the 5th minute, followed by Lobaz Cabral’s equalizer five minutes later. Nene Dorgeles scored twice in the 39th and 51st minutes to seal the victory for Mali.

Egypt Held by Angola

Egypt were held to a 0-0 draw by Angola in their Group D opener. Mostafa Ziko had a goal disallowed for offside in the 21st minute. Despite continued pressure, neither side could find a breakthrough.