2022 WCQ: Tanzania scoop group J spot as Mali, and Uganda pick victories to head into Group E two-horse race

COTONOU, Benin

Tanzania responded to their home shocking defeat last Thursday to beat Benina 1-0 in Cotonou, and go top of Group J of the FIFA World Cup, Qatar 2022 qualifiers on Sunday.

The host lost the group's top spot to the visitors Taifa Stars after conceding a home defeat at Stade de l’Amitie.

The Stars went into the game to revive from their home 1-0 defeat last Thursday, knowing a win will take them to top spot in the group.

Simon Msuva opened the scoring in the sixth minute to give the visitors an early lead from Israel Patrick's throw on the right side, one that they held on till the end of the opening half.

In the second half, Benin threw more men in attack trying to restore parity. Tanzanian goalkeeper Aishi Manula denied Steve Mounie and Mikael Pote to keep his side ahead.

The visitors' back players maintained a fortified wall that could not be passed by talented Benin forward line players.

Tanzania lead the group on goal difference from Benin, both on seven points. DR Congo follows on five while Madagascar trails the pack pointless.

Meanwhile, Mali and Uganda will battle for the single slot from Group E in the next round of the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers after both picked up victories in their round four matches on Sunday.

Mali beat Kenya 1-0 at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi to remain top of the group with 10 points while Uganda beat Rwanda by a similar score in Kampala to remain second with eight points heading into the last two rounds.

Mathematically, Kenya and Rwanda have both bowed out of contention.

In Nairobi, Kenya showed an improved performance but it was never enough to pick three points at home and put their campaign back on track.

The home side started well and Duke Abuya had the first chance of the game, forcing the Malian keeper into a fine save in the eighth minute when he struck a shot from inside the box after being teed up by Michael Olunga.

Three minutes later, Olunga was at the end of another chance for Stars when he rose to meet a Muchiri cross but his header flew over the bar.

Mali then found a chance and Kone slapped the ball home from inside the box off a cutback on the left.

Uganda 1-0 Rwanda

In Kampala, Fahad Bayo scored the lone goal as Uganda beat Rwanda by a solitary goal. Bayo headed home from a corner to hand the Cranes maximum points at home.