Morocco, Mali book Round 16 slot from Group A as Zambia eliminated

Group A was concluded in a grand style with Morocco smashing Zambia into pieces. Ayoub El Kaabi once again scored a spectacular overhead kick to overshadow the superb performance the Atlas Lions put on.

With only a draw to qualify, the host nation started on a good note as they created chances right from the onset. Ounahi’s beautiful cross was connected by El Kaabi’s header in the 9th minute to put the Atlas Lions in front.

The In-form Real Madrid star Ibrahim Diaz beautifully slotted home Ezzazouli’s cut-back cross to put Morocco 2-0.

El Kaabi tripled Morocco’s lead with a wonderful overhead kick from Ounahi’s cross in the second half. It was all Morocco after the goal as Zambia failed to find any antidote to their opponents’ incessant attack.

The horrible performances for Zambia in recent tournaments continued after failing to win any of its last 13 Africa Cup of Nations matches (10 draws, 3 losses), as it is the worst current run for any nation in the competition, surpassing Guinea-Bissau’s three draws and nine losses in 12 games.

It was an easy win for Morocco, and they displayed why they are the favourites to lift the competition.

Mali and Comoros drew goalles which helped Mali to finish second in the group. The Eagles are yet to record a win at the tournament, having drawn all three games.

Tom Saintfiet’s charges must up their game to survive against whoever comes their way in the round of 16. Mali lost focus in the final stages of the game against Zambia. Against Morocco, Saintfiet was so bold and marched the host nation boot for boot, tactically, but the Eagles failed to show anything serious against Comoros. Comoros, on the other hand, are eliminated after failing to score a single goal at the tournament. The Coelacanths have drawn games two and lost one.