Morocco goal spree eliminates Egypt

JOHANNESBURG: A three-goal blitz earned Morocco a 3-1 home victory over Egypt on Friday and a place at the 2018 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Kenya.

The Moroccans won the final round qualifier 4-2 on aggregate having come from behind to draw the first leg 1-1 in Alexandria last weekend.

After a goalless opening half in Rabat, Jawad Yamiq broke the deadlock in the 50th-minute and Abderrahim Maqran and Badr Belhrouz stretched the lead to three goals.

Hamid Hossam scored a late consolation goal for Egypt, who were debuting in the biennial competition for home-based footballers.

Libya drew 1-1 with Algeria in Tunisian city Sfax to squeeze through 3-2 on aggregate after a shock 2-1 first-leg triumph seven days ago.

Algeria had to score at least twice to survive and took the lead midway through the first half when Sofiane Bendebka scored off a rebound.

But first-leg match-winner Muaid Ellafi levelled on the night in first-half stoppage time and Libya kept Algeria at bay in the closing 45 minutes of the tie.

Hosts Kenya automatically qualify for the 16-team Nations Championship tournament next January and February.

Equatorial Guinea secured a place without kicking a ball after opponents Gabon withdrew before the first leg.

A further 12 second legs be played between Saturday Tuesday. will and