Ivory Coast failed to qualify for the knockout stages of the African Cup of Nations following a 1-0 defeat against Morocco, while Congo DR beat Togo 3-1 on Tuesday.

The Elephants got off to a good start with Hertha BSC forward Salomon Kalou looking threatening in the opening exchanges of the match.

However, Morocco came close to breaking the deadlock in the 25th minute when Faycal Fajr saw his shot rattled the woodwork from a free-kick from outside the box.

Ivory Cost came close to opening the scoring when Kalou played Wilfried Zaha through on goal but he was denied by a fine save from Morocco goalkeeper El Kajoui from close range.

Just before the half-time interval, the Elephants had another chance to take the lead but Kalou guided his headed effort over the crossbar.

However, Morocco eventually opened the scoring in the 63rd minute when Rachid Alloui found the back of the net with his strike from 25-yards out to make it 1-0.

The defending champions nearly levelled matters in the 81st minute but Kalou saw his volleyed effort directed to the side-netting.

Morocco held onto their 1-0 lead until the final whistle to claim a 1-0 victory over the defending champions, who have now exited the tournament after finishing third in Group C.

Meanwhile, Congo DR advance to the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations following their 3-1 victory over Togo at the Stade de Port-Gentil.

Image: CAF website