Morocco and Mali Progress to AFCON 2025 Knockouts
Morocco booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 round of 16 with a commanding 3-0 win over Zambia in Rabat on Monday.
Ayoub El Kaabi opened the scoring with a close-range header before Brahim Diaz doubled the lead with a calm, low finish. El Kaabi then sealed the victory in the second half with his second bicycle kick of the tournament, underlining his reputation as one of AFCON’s most spectacular scorers.
The hosts finish top of Group A and will carry momentum into the knockout stages, while Zambia are eliminated. Morocco coach Walid Regragui praised his side’s performance, although he admitted midfielder Azzeddine Ounahi must improve ahead of tougher opponents.
In the other Group A match in Casablanca, Mali secured a 0-0 draw against 10-man Comoros, ensuring their progression to the round of 16 behind Morocco. Comoros, finishing third, are unlikely to advance as one of the best third-placed teams.
Mali’s campaign has been marked by discipline issues, with three red cards already this tournament, but they now have another match to continue their journey in AFCON 2025.
Morocco and Mali will both hope their strong group performances can carry them deep into the tournament, as the knockout stages promise more intense challenges.
