Morocco's hopes of qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 1998 were dealt a blow after they slumped to a 3-1 defeat by minnows Tanzania in Dar Es Salaam on Sunday.

Thomas Ulimwengu opened the scoring just before the break and a brace by TP Mazembe's striker Mbwana Samata in the 67th and 80th minutes gave Tanzania a surprising win over Morocco.

Granada's forward Youssef El-Arabi notched up a consolation for Morocco in stoppage time.

Tanzania climbed to the second place of Group C with six points, while Morocco lie third with just two points with three matches remaining.

Ivory Coast are leading the group with seven points after beating Gambia 3-0 on Saturday.

The group winners will advance to a decisive two-legged playoff that will determine Africa's five representatives at next year's World Cup in Brazil.

In Group A, Ethiopia moved top of Group A with a 1-0 win over Botswana on Sunday. They have seven points, two ahead of second-placed South Africa.

Zambia, African champions in 2012, were held to 1-1 away draw by Lesotho on Sunday to Keep their place as Group D leaders with seven points.

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