World Cup 2026 (Q): Morocco cruise, Zambia stumble
Morocco played their first 2026 World Cup qualifier, beating Tanzania on Tuesday
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After Eritrea's withdrawal from qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, Group E will be played with just 5 teams, unlike the other groups, which are made up of 6 sides. That is why Morocco were only now making their debut. In Tanzania, Morocco needed to show their favourites' status early. It took just 3 minutes for the Atlas Lions to get their first chance to score, from a penalty. But Paris full-back Achraf Hakimi sent his effort over the bar and into the Tanzanian sky.
Far from being discouraged, the 2022 World Cup semi-finalists, under Walid Regragui, broke through the opposition defence via Hakim Ziyech (28th) from a Nayef Aguerd pass. Second best throughout, the Tanzanians threw in the towel and sealed the result with an own goal from Lusajo Mwaikenda (53rd). Even with a game fewer played than the rest of the group, this win for the Atlas Lions is enough to take top spot on goal difference.
Read more on the same subject: 2026 World Cup (Q): Senegal, Cameroon and Mauritania held, Ghana lose in Comoros
Niger surprise Zambia
On a run of 6 defeats in their last 7 matches, Niger managed to halt the slump by beating Zambia (2-1). It was an important performance against stronger opposition. Already beaten at home by Tanzania, the Nigeriens had another opportunity at home and this time they did not miss out. Niger made a good start, going 2 goals ahead through Amadou Moutari (6th) and Boubacar Goumey (28th). Determined to hold on to that lead, they secured the 3 points despite Patson Daka pulling one back (50th). Everything is up for grabs again in Group E, with Zambia, Niger and Tanzania all on 3 points, ahead of Congo, who have yet to pick up a point in these 2026 World Cup qualifiers.