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Morocco continue strong performances and top the group with emphatic win over Zambia

Hosts Morocco continued their strong displays at the Africa Cup of Nations, securing top spot in Group A after recording a comprehensive 3–0 victory over Zambia, in a match that confirmed the “Atlas Lions’” readiness to enter the knockout stages with great confidence. Veteran striker Ayoub El Kaabi once again shone by scoring twice, while Ibrahim Díaz maintained his influential attacking presence, in a match that also saw the return of right-back Achraf Hakimi following his recovery from injury.

Morocco entered the match with intensity and imposed their tempo from the opening moments, coming close to scoring within seconds, before quickly turning their dominance into an early goal in the ninth minute through a fine header from El Kaabi, following a precise cross from Azzedine Ounahi.

That early goal ignited the stands at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium and gave Moroccan players a significant confidence boost, which translated into near-total control of the match, as Zambia visibly retreated and struggled defensively.

Morocco continued to apply attacking pressure, with Díaz going close through a powerful effort before successfully adding the second goal after a well-worked team move and a flowing passing sequence that ended with a precise finish into the far corner. Before the break, Díaz nearly increased the tally further, only to be denied by an excellent save from Zambia’s goalkeeper.

In the second half, Zambia attempted to play with greater boldness and threatened the Moroccan goal with a dangerous shot, but Morocco quickly regained control. El Kaabi added the third goal with a spectacular overhead kick, recalling his memorable strike in the opening match, before VAR confirmed the goal and ended Zambia’s brief moment of celebration.

With the result secure, the match also saw the participation of Africa’s Best Player for 2025, Achraf Hakimi, in the 64th minute, marking a long-awaited return after injury. His comeback provided an additional boost for head coach Walid Regragui, who stated after the match that his team is developing gradually and approaching every game with a final-like mentality.

No goals in Salah’s absence

In Group B, Egypt finished the group stage on top after playing out a goalless draw with Angola, in a match that lacked cutting edge due to the absence of star forward Mohamed Salah, whom head coach Hossam Hassan chose to rest along with several regular starters after the “Pharaohs” had already secured qualification. Despite a few attempts from both sides, the deadlock remained unbroken until full time.

In another match, South Africa claimed a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Zimbabwe to secure second place in the group.

The encounter featured dramatic momentum shifts and fine goals, before a late penalty ultimately decided the contest and brought Zimbabwe’s hopes of reaching the next round to an end.

Attention now turns to the round of 16, where competition is set to intensify as teams edge closer to the dream of continental glory.