2018 World Cup: Zambia close gap on Group B leaders Nigeria

Patson Daka was one of Zambia's stars at this year's Under-20 World Cup

Zambia beat Algeria 1-0 in Constantine to move within three points of Group B leaders Nigeria in African World Cup qualifying.

The Zambians' first victory in Algeria came after teenager Patson Daka lifted the ball home midway through the second half.

The visitors also had Kennedy Mweene to thank after the goalkeeper saved Riyad Mahrez's first-half penalty.

Zambia meet Nigeria next, in Uyo on 7 October, in a crucial tie.

The Nigerians, who have reached five of the last six World Cups, can qualify for Russia with a win against Chipolopolo.

Three months ago, 18-year-old Daka was one of Zambia's star players as the team reached the quarter-finals of the Under-20 World Cup.

Meanwhile, Algeria - who performed creditably at the 2014 World Cup where they took champions Germany to extra-time - can no longer qualify for Russia next year.

The failure was greeted badly by some fans in Constantine, where the Desert Foxes missed several late chances - notably from Leicester City striker Islam Slimani.

They stay rooted to the bottom of the table with just one point and three defeats from their four games.

Cameroon, who will miss next year's finals having appeared at six of the previous seven World Cups, lie in third place with three points.