Morocco move top after beating Algeria in North Africa qualifiers

Morocco’s youth team moved to the top of the North Africa qualifiers after beating Algeria 3-1 in the third round of matches in Egypt.

The tournament is being played to determine qualification for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations in Ghana.

The two sides were level at 0-0 at half-time, but Morocco scored three times after the break to secure their first victory of the competition.

Morocco had drawn with Tunisia in their second-round fixture, while Algeria had opened their campaign with a draw against Tunisia before beating Libya in the following round.

The result leaves Morocco temporarily top of the table on four points from two matches. Algeria also have four points, but have played three games.

Egypt will face Tunisia at 20:00 in the third round of fixtures on [the day of the match].

North Africa qualifiers standings

– Morocco: four points from two matches – Algeria: four points from three matches – Egypt: three points from one match – Tunisia: two points from two matches – Libya: zero points from two matches

The two highest-placed teams will qualify directly for the Africa Cup of Nations, which is scheduled to take place in Ghana next year.

Algeria will not play in the fourth round. Morocco, meanwhile, will meet Egypt.

In the final round of the qualifiers, Algeria will face Egypt and Morocco will play Libya.