Michael Basser

Morocco denied Niger their first ever Africa Cup of Nations point with a 1-0 win in this meaningless closing Group C tie here on Tuesday.

Gabon made it into the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals after a classic and almost surreal 3-2 win over Morocco here on Thursday.

Gabon and Morocco have identified Friday's Group C meeting here as crucial to their respective Africa Cup of Nations fortunes - but for vastly different reasons.

Morocco are prepared to take risks "without committing suicide" to ensure victory over Gabon Friday and improve their prospects of prolonging their stay at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Morocco's Marouane Chamakh was one of five players to miss training here Wednesday, 48 hours before the team's make or break date with Gabon.