African Qualifiers Recap: South Africa’s Heroics Upset Nigeria, Dominant Wins for North AfricaFriday’s World Cup qualifiers in Africa offered a day of mixed results, with an underdog’s triumph in Group C and dominant victories for North African powerhouses.
Here’s a look at the key takeaways:South Africa Upsets Nigeria in Group C Thriller: A dramatic encounter in Uyo saw South Africa hold Nigeria to a 1-1 draw in Group C. Themba Zwane’s goal for South Africa surprised the favorites, but Nigeria responded through Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
This result, combined with Lesotho’s earlier win, opens up the qualification race in Group C, making the remaining matches even more exciting.
Morocco Clinches Hard-Fought Win Over Zambia in Group E: Morocco continued their winning ways in Group E with a hard-earned 2-1 victory over Zambia.
Early goals from Hakim Ziyech and Eliesse Ben Seghir put Morocco in control, although Edward Chilufya managed a consolation goal for Zambia in the second half.
This win allows Morocco to maintain their lead at the top of the group.
Ivory Coast Maintains Perfect Record in Group F: The reigning African champions, Ivory Coast, continued their flawless campaign in Group F with a narrow 1-0 victory over Gabon.
Seko Fofana’s goal was the difference in a tight match, showcasing the determination of Ivory Coast to secure their spot in the World Cup.