Morocco cruise to the knockouts win over Zambia | OneFootball

Morocco topped Group A at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a comfortable 3-0 win over Zambia on Monday.

The Atlas Lions were on the front foot from the start, pressing high and creating several chances before breaking the deadlock after just ten minutes. Azzedine Ounahi’s short corner found Ayoub Kaabi at the far post, and the striker made no mistake with a firm header.

Morocco didn’t let up after taking the lead. Abde Ezzalzouli drove down the left and sent in a teasing cross, which Brahim Díaz tucked away neatly after Kaabi’s first attempt was blocked. The team kept Zambia pinned back and came close again before halftime, with Díaz seeing a low shot brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.

The second half saw Zambia try to respond. Patson Daka forced a chance across goal but couldn’t find the net. Morocco, however, quickly put the result beyond doubt. Kaabi scored a stunning bicycle kick to make it 3-0, his second goal of the night, before Morocco gradually slowed the tempo and controlled possession for the remainder of the game.

Lameck Banda and Given Kalusa tried long-range efforts for Zambia but couldn’t trouble the defence. Achraf Hakimi made a return from injury, his first game since November, adding further quality at the back.

In the other Group A match, Mali drew 0-0 with the Comoros Islands, securing second place in the group. The Eagles dominated possession and created the better chances, with Nene Dorgeles and Mohamed Camara both testing goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.

Comoros had a small spell of pressure late on but couldn’t force a breakthrough, even after Amadou Haidara was sent off in stoppage time.

With these results, Morocco and Mali move into the Round of 16, while Comoros finish third and are eliminated. The Atlas Lions can head into the knockout stage with confidence after a dominant group showing, and Mali will be buoyed by their steady, disciplined performance.