Morocco Advances to Knockout Stages of AFCON with Stellar Performances

Morocco began their AFCON journey with a commanding 2-0 victory over Comoros, where El Kaabi captured the spotlight with an impressive bicycle kick, propelling the tournament hosts to a notable win. This was followed by a 1-1 draw against Mali. In their final group match, Morocco secured a resounding 3-0 triumph over Zambia, with El Kaabi once again making headlines. He executed a stunning aerial shot to connect with a cross while facing away from the goal, finding the bottom corner and igniting fervent celebrations. He had already opened the scoring with a remarkable diving header, while Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz also contributed to the scoreline.

El Kaabi remarked, “We finished top of our group. That was our objective, and it means we will stay in Rabat. Now a new competition begins, where there is no room for error. We will rest a little, and above all prepare well for the next challenges.”

Morocco, bolstered by the return of Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi, has advanced to the knockout stages of AFCON as Group A winners. They will await the identity of their opponents in the Round of 16, set to face one of the best third-placed teams from either Group C, D, or E on January 4.

Head coach Walid Regragui expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “We played well and had a solid plan that worked out well. It was not an easy match, but thanks to a well-thought-out game plan, we managed to secure the result we needed to seal our qualification. As the home team, we must approach every match as if it were a final. We have a very supportive crowd rallying behind us, which motivates all the players to give their utmost in every match. We look forward to the knockout stages and will continue to work hard.”

Already considered among the favorites for the AFCON title, Morocco’s prospects have been further enhanced by Hakimi’s return. The PSG right-back, recently honored as the African Footballer of the Year following a treble-winning season with his club, is eager to secure a major international trophy with his national team.