Morocco wrapped up their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign in emphatic style with a 7-0 win over Lesotho, while Gabon edged the Central African Republic (CAR) 1-0 to solidify their second-place finish in Group B. 

With both Morocco and Gabon already confirmed for next year’s tournament, the final matchday offered a chance to conclude the group phase with a flourish.

Playing in front of a lively home crowd at the Stade d’Honneur d’Oujda, Morocco extended their perfect record in Group B to six wins from six matches.

The hosts overwhelmed Lesotho with a first-half blitz that saw them net five goals, including a brace from Brahim Díaz. Soufiane Rahimi added to the tally, converting a penalty just before halftime.

The second half saw the Atlas Lions maintain their intensity, with Youssef En-Nesyri and Ismael Saibari scoring to complete the rout.

Morocco ended the campaign with an incredible +24 goal difference, underlining their dominance.

Having conceded just two goals in the entire campaign, Morocco are among the tournament favourites as hosts of AFCON 2025.

Comoros leapfrogged Tunisia to finish at the summit of Group A in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Madagascar.

Tunisia, meanwhile, suffered a surprise 1-0 defeat to Gambia in Tunis, failing to maintain their top position.

At the Grand Stade Al-Hoceima, Comoros delivered when it mattered most, defeating Madagascar courtesy of a Yacine Bourhane strike early in the second half.

The hosts showcased their defensive resilience, nullifying Madagascar’s attack and preserving their slender lead.

Despite dominating possession, Comoros found it challenging to break down Madagascar’s compact defensive setup in the first half.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 47th minute when Bourhane capitalized on a corner delivery to tap home from close range.

The win cemented Comoros’ unbeaten record in the group and secured their position at the top with 12 points from six games.

Madagascar, on the other hand, ended their campaign at the bottom of the group, managing just two points.

Their inability to capitalize on goal-scoring opportunities and poor defensive performances have left much to be desired.

Tunisia’s unbeaten home record in the qualifiers came to an abrupt halt as Gambia pulled off a surprise 1-0 victory at the Stade Olympique Hammadi-Agrebi.

Abdoulie Ceesay’s 17th-minute header proved decisive, as Tunisia struggled to convert their chances despite dominating possession and creating several goal-scoring opportunities.

The Eagles of Carthage were left frustrated as Sayfallah Ltaief hit the post in the 13th minute, and substitute Nabil Makni came close late in the second half but was denied by Gambia’s resilient defense.

Gambia’s solid defensive shape and disciplined performance helped them finish third in the group with eight points.

Group A Final Standings:

1. Comoros – 12 points (3 wins, 3 draws, 0 losses)
2. Tunisia – 10 points (3 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses)
3. Gambia – 8 points (2 wins, 2 draws, 2 losses)
4. Madagascar – 2 points (0 wins, 2 draws, 4 losses)