Morocco Defeats Zambia 3-0 to Advance in Africa Cup of Nations

In a thrilling encounter at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco triumphed over Zambia with a decisive 3-0 victory, concluding their Group A campaign on a high note and advancing to the round of 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Ayoub El Kaabi was instrumental in the win, scoring twice — including a stunning bicycle kick — while Brahim Diaz also contributed with a well-executed goal. This result effectively eliminated Zambia from the tournament, while Mali’s goalless draw with Comoros allowed them to progress as runners-up.

The match marked the return of Achraf Hakimi, a key player for Morocco, who had been sidelined since early November due to an ankle injury sustained while playing for Paris Saint-Germain.

El Kaabi began the scoring just nine minutes into the match, connecting with a lofted ball from Azzedine Ounahi to direct a diving header past Zambia’s goalkeeper Willard Mwanza. The second goal followed shortly thereafter; Diaz showcased his finishing skills in the 27th minute, capitalizing on a cross from Abde Ezzalzouli, which had evaded El Kaabi in the box.

Zambia struggled to contend with Morocco’s attacking prowess from the onset, appearing unsettled throughout the first half. El Kaabi nearly found the net again but was thwarted by Mwanza, as was Ezzalzouli moments later.

Ezzalzouli’s inclusion in the starting lineup gave Morocco a dynamic attacking front, combining effectively with Diaz, who previously had a stint at Barcelona. The duo’s chemistry was evident as they frequently pressured the Zambian defense.

After the halftime break, El Kaabi struck again, this time with another acrobatic goal, securing his position as a contender for goal of the tournament after a similar feat against Comoros in the opening match. The Moroccan fans erupted in celebration as he executed a spectacular scissor kick from an Ounahi cross.

The evening’s atmosphere reached a crescendo when Hakimi made his much-anticipated return as a substitute in the 64th minute, replacing Noussair Mazraoui. His presence injected renewed energy into the team, providing a significant boost for head coach Walid Regragui, particularly after the team’s winning streak was halted by Mali in their previous match.

Advancing as group winners, Morocco will face one of the best third-placed teams from Groups C, D, or E in Rabat on January 4. Meanwhile, Mali will compete against the runner-up from Group C, likely Tunisia, in Casablanca on January 3.

In earlier matches, Egypt, the winners of Group B, were held to a 0-0 draw by Angola, which may still allow them to advance as one of the best-placed runners-up. South Africa secured their place in the knockout rounds with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Zimbabwe.