With convincing wins against Gabon and Algeria respectively, Angola and Nigeria stay locked on equal points at the top of Group 4 in the African Zone qualifiers of 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany.

Angola had a comfortable 3-0 home win against out of contention Gabon. An own goal from Akoue opened the scoring after 22 minutes, and the Angolans were two-nil up just before half time, when Mantorras converted. A late third from Kalanga, in the ninetieth minute was the icing on the cake.

The game in Oran was a rollercoaster ride for Nigeria. Two-nil up at half time and coasting, they looked to have thrown the game away when they conceded two early goals in the second half. But with ten minutes to go they went on the rampage, scoring three goals in the last ten minutes of time to sweep the Algerians away.

Martins opened the scoring for Nigeria after 20 minutes and Utaka doubled their lead on forty three. Algeria’s second half response began when Yacef scored after 48 minutes, and they drew level on 59 minutes from Boutabout. Then came the torrent of goals at the end, Kanu first on 80 minutes. Eight minutes later Martins sealed the victory for the Super Eagles, and Obodo rounded off the scoring a minute later.

Everything now boils down to the final round of qualifiers in a months time. Nigeria have home advantage and should be favourites, but Angola haven’t given up yet.

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