Gabon, who was the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations hosts were forced to play the match without their injured Borussia Dortmund striker Pierre -Emerick Aubameyang.

Gabon,who are ranked 42 places above Mozambique in the FIFA standings, host the second leg of the qualifier this Saturday in Libreville.

Meanwhile, Striker Winston Kalengo scored a lone goal as Zambia kicked off their 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers with a 1-0 victory over Sudan away in Karima.

Kalengo benefited from a defensive error in the opponents backline to slot a low shot into an empty net after 29 minutes to aid Chipolopolo edge Sudan.

The return leg will be played this Sunday in Ndola with the overall winner advancing to the group stage of the World Cup qualifying campaign.

Elsewhere, Suspended FIFA, boss Sepp Blatter is in the hospital after what doctors have called a small emotional breakdown.

The 77 year old who has led FIFA for 18 years, was provisionally suspended for 90 days last month amid a corruption scandal. It is understood he suffered what has been called a nervous shock but is expected to make a full recovery.

He will remain in hospital until Tuesday next week after being admitted initially for a check-up routine last week.

Khephren FANGA