AFCON 2017 qualifiers - Heavyweights stutter

SOME of Africa’s heavyweights stuttered in their matches as the 2017 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers got underway.

Nigeria managed only a draw against Tanzania, Tunisia and South Africa were beaten while Mauritius yesterday beat Mozambique 1-0 to remain in contention for a ticket from Group H.

South Africa were hammered 3-0 by Mauritania and Liberia stunned Tunisia 1-0 in Monronvia.

Louis Pithia's goal also gave Mauritius victory over Mozambique and their first points in Group H.

The midfielder's 51st-minute effort gave the hosts a 1-0 victory which draws them level with second-placed Rwanda on three points behind leaders, Ghana who won 1-0 away to Rwanda in Kigali.

Algeria scored twice in the last five minutes to secure a 3-1 victory away to Lesotho in their 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

Victory moves Algeria back to the top of Group J with the maximum six points, while pointless Lesotho are rooted to the bottom.

Zamalek striker Bassem Morsy hit a hat-trick for Egypt in their 5-1 victory away to Chad in Group G.

Morsy completed his hat-trick in the 62nd minute to ensure Egypt went top of Group G.

Nigeria are two points behind after their 0-0 draw in Tanzania last Saturday.

Zambia, champions in 2012, came from behind away to Kenya in Group E to claim a 2-1 win.

Central African Republic also stunned DR Congo in their encounter with a 2-0 victory