Algeria, Ivory Coast, and Cameroon all began their campaigns with victories. A look back at another day of action in Morocco.
Group E: Algeria and Burkina Faso Deliver
In Group E, Burkina Faso kicked things off. Against an always gritty Equatorial Guinea side, Burkina Faso showed remarkable resilience to secure the win. Despite Equatorial Guinea being reduced to ten men after Ndong was sent off, it was the Reds who stunned everyone by opening the scoring through Anieboh. From there on, the Stallions laid siege to Equatorial Guinea, scoring twice in stoppage time, including a dramatic winner from Bayer Leverkusen defender Tapsoba in the 98th minute.
In the second match, Algeria had a more comfortable outing against Sudan. Riyad Mahrez, a much-criticized leader of the national team, struck a brace to put the Fennecs in control. Despite some defensive scares caused by the shaky Mandi–Bensebaini partnership, Algeria showed composure, helped by the introduction of talented players such as Maza, who scored the third goal.
Sudan fought bravely and deserve full praise for competing while their country is enduring a civil war. Our editorial team sends its thoughts to the local population affected by the conflict.
Group F: Narrow Wins for Ivory Coast and Cameroon
Against strong opposition, both Ivory Coast and Cameroon secured narrow victories. Facing tough and disciplined teams such as Mozambique and Gabon, the two traditional powerhouses struggled to impose themselves in open play.
Ivory Coast were tested by an excellent Mozambique side that executed their game plan well. The breakthrough ultimately came from Amad Diallo, who finished a cross delivered from the left flank.
For Cameroon, after the doubts raised by a disastrous World Cup qualifying campaign, this victory offered reassurance. Etta-Eyong scored the only goal of the match to give the Indomitable Lions a much-needed win.