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Hakim Ziyech’s early penalty set Morocco on their way to a 2-1 win over Zambia in African qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, while Ivory Coast also extended their perfect start by seeing off Gabon 1-0.<\/b><\/p>\n
Seko Fofana’s curling strike nine minutes before the break put the Elephants three points clear at the top of Group F in what was the West Africans’ first competitive outing since being crowned continental champions in February.<\/a><\/p>\n Meanwhile, Nigeria remain without a victory following their 1-1 draw with South Africa – a result which leaves Lesotho top of Group C after the minnows registered an upset over Zimbabwe earlier on Friday.<\/p>\n Madagascar, Mozambique and Uganda all recorded victories to move level on points at the summit of their respective groups.<\/p>\n The third round of matches finishes with two games on Saturday, with the fourth set of fixtures taking place on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.<\/p>\n Each of the nine African qualifying group winners are guaranteed a place at the 2026 World Cup finals, and the four best-placed runners-up will play off for a spot at an intercontinental tournament where the final two berths in the United States, Mexico and Canada will be decided.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n