Overview
- Patson Daka headed a 90+2' equaliser in Zambia’s 1-1 draw with Mali before an awkward flip left him with a neck scare; the federation says he will undergo studies, and his availability for upcoming matches is being monitored.
- Algeria began Group E with a 3-0 win over Sudan as Riyad Mahrez scored twice and goalkeeper Luca Zidane started with his father Zinedine watching from the stands.
- Senegal opened with a 3-0 victory over Botswana behind a Nicolas Jackson brace, while DR Congo beat Benin 1-0 to join the early Group D leaders.
- South Africa defeated Angola 2-1 with Lyle Foster netting the winner, and Egypt edged Zimbabwe 2-1 with a late strike from Mohamed Salah.
- Nigeria topped Tanzania 2-1 and Tunisia beat Uganda 3-1, following host Morocco’s 2-0 opening win over Comoros as group-stage play continues in Morocco through January 18.