-
Ed Dove
The hosts of the Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco, secured a decisive 3-0 victory over Zambia at the energetic Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, finishing their Group A campaign on a high note and progressing to the knockout stage.
Ayoub El Kaabi scored twice, including a remarkable bicycle kick, complemented by a fine goal from Brahim Diaz. This win also marked Zambia’s exit from the tournament, while Mali managed to secure their place in the next round following a goalless draw against Comoros.
Morocco’s victory also marked the return of star player Achraf Hakimi, who had been sidelined since early November due to an ankle injury sustained while playing for Paris Saint-Germain.
El Kaabi put Morocco ahead just nine minutes into the match, directing a diving header past Zambia’s goalkeeper, Willard Mwanza, following a corner from Azzedine Ounahi. The second goal arrived in the 27th minute from the impressive Diaz, who capitalized on a cross by Abde Ezzalzouli to extend the lead. Zambia looked shaky throughout, struggling to cope with Morocco’s pressure.
The addition of Real Betis winger Ezzalzouli in the starting lineup added flair to Morocco’s attack, while Diaz narrowly missed extending their lead just before halftime with a strike that went wide.
Five minutes after the second half began, El Kaabi scored again with another athletic goal, brilliantly connecting with Ounahi’s cross, prompting euphoric celebrations in the Moroccan capital.
A standout moment of the match came when Hakimi entered the field as a substitute in the 64th minute, receiving a warm reception from the crowd. His return is a significant boost for head coach Walid Regragui, who faced pressures following Morocco’s previous loss to Mali.
As group champions, Morocco now prepares to face one of the best third-placed teams from Groups C, D, or E in Rabat on January 4. Meanwhile, Mali will take on the runner-up from Group C, likely Tunisia, in Casablanca on January 3.
The Eagles of Mali dominated against Comoros but faced a tense ending after Amadou Haidara was controversially red-carded late in the match. Despite this, they progressed with five points, while Comoros is left uncertain about their advancement with only two points.
Earlier, Group B champions Egypt played to a 0-0 draw with Angola, a result that may still allow the team to advance as one of the best runners-up. In contrast, South Africa clinched a 3-2 victory over Zimbabwe, securing their place in the knockout stage.