Ziyech strikes as Morocco claim victory while Ghana, South Africa crash
The Galatasaray winger struck 28 minutes into the 2026 qualifier in Dar es Salaam and Tanzania fell further behind when Lusajo Mwaikenda conceded an own goal eight minutes after half-time. Tanzania, who are ranked 108 places below Morocco, were reduced to 10 men midway through the second half after Novatus Miroshi was red-carded following a second caution.
While Morocco made a winning start in Group E after receiving a first round bye last week when Eritrea withdrew, Zambia suffered a surprise 2-1 loss to Niger in the same section. It was the first competitive defeat for former Chelsea and West Ham United manager Avram Grant since taking charge of Zambia last December.
A superb solo goal by Myziane Maolida just before half-time gave Comoros a 1-0 victory over Ghana in Moroni and first place in Group I with six points, two more than top seeds Mali. Maolida took possession close to the centre circle, dribbled past several opponents and beat goalkeeper Richard Ofori with a shot from inside the box.
Comoros also shocked Ghana at the last Africa Cup of Nations by winning 3-2 - a result that condemned the Black Stars to a first-round exit. Losing will intensify the pressure on Ghana coach and former Premier League manager Chris Hughton after three defeats in four matches.
Rwanda adapted much better than South Africa to a rain-drenched artificial pitch in Group C in Butare and won 2-0 to end a 12-match unbeaten run by the visitors. Sloppy defending by Nkosinathi Sibisi and Khuliso Mudau gifted goals to Innocent Nshuti and Gilbert Mugisha within 28 minutes as the home side used a route-one approach to good effect.
South Africa, however, persisted with short passes that often went astray and they seldom threatened to get back into the
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