Egypt, who won their fifth men's continental crown when hosting the 2016 event, triumphed 33-28 in a tough Group B battle against Morocco at Le Palais des Sports de Libreville.

Angola, chasing a first ever win after third place last time around, won 29-16 against Nigeria today elsewhere in the same group.

Algeria, the winners in 2014, won 31-23 over Cameroon in Group A.

The top four from each group will reach the quarter-finals.

The top three overall will qualify for the 2019 World Handball Championships in Denmark and Germany.

Action also continued today at the European Men's Championships in Croatia.

It marked the final day of preliminary round competition.

Germany drew 25-25 with Macedonia in Group C at the Arena Zagreb before Slovenia ensured Montenegro were eliminated with a 28-19 win at the same venue.

In Group D, Hungary were the one team to miss out after losing 33-27 to Czech Republic at the Varaždin Arena,

Denmark then enjoyed an excellent 25-22 win over Spain.

Main round action is due to begin tomorrow.

The Asian Championships also begin tomorrow in South Korea.