Morocco secured a 1-0 victory over Zambia in the Africa Cup of Nations Group F, with Hakim Ziyech scoring the decisive goal on Wednesday.
The result had significant implications, allowing hosts Ivory Coast, who suffered a 4-0 defeat to Equatorial Guinea earlier in the week, to narrowly advance to the last 16 as one of the four highest-ranked third-placed teams.
As Group winners, Morocco is set to face South Africa in the round of 16, while the Democratic Republic of Congo, the runners-up who drew 0-0 with Tanzania, are slated to face Egypt.
Morocco’s coach, Walid Regragui, observed the match from the stands due to a two-match suspension resulting from a post-match altercation with DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba on Sunday. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation plans to appeal the suspension, deeming it an “incomprehensible decision” as Regragui did not violate the spirit of fair play.
Despite resting captain Romain Saiss, Morocco controlled territory and possession, and Ziyech’s goal in the 38th minute secured the win. Zambia had to secure at least a draw to advance at the expense of Ivory Coast, but their efforts fell short.
Ziyech, on loan to Galatasaray from Chelsea, didn’t return for the second half due to injury, with Amine Adli taking his place. The match saw some tense moments, including Moroccan winger Sofiane Boufal receiving a lecture for diving in the area.
In a bid for an equalizer, Zambia coach Avram Grant brought on Fashion Sakala and Kings Kangwa in the second half, but Morocco held firm to secure their victory. The focus now shifts to the knockout stage, where Morocco and Ivory Coast will look to make their mark in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Reported BY AFP.
