Walid Regragui praises Morocco after impressive win over Zambia seals AFCON last-16 spot

Morocco coach Walid Regragui praised his players after a commanding 3-0 victory over Zambia secured qualification to the round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations as winners of Group A.

The hosts made their intentions clear from the opening minutes, pressing with purpose and controlling the tempo. Their early dominance paid off in the ninth minute when Ayoub El Kaabi opened the scoring. A well-worked short corner from the right allowed Azzedine Ounahi to deliver to the far post, where El Kaabi rose unmarked to head home from close range.

Morocco doubled their advantage in the 27th minute, again through Ounahi’s vision. The midfielder threaded a precise pass down the left for Abde Ezzalzouli, whose low cross skipped past El Kaabi and fell kindly for Brahim Diaz. The winger kept his composure to steer a left-footed finish beyond goalkeeper Toaster Nsabata Mwanza.

Any prospect of a Zambian comeback disappeared early in the second half. Morocco resumed with the same attacking intent, and El Kaabi struck again in the 53rd minute. From another short set-piece, Ounahi lofted the ball into the area, and El Kaabi produced a superb bicycle kick with his back to goal. After an initial offside call, VAR confirmed the goal, completing his brace.

“We played well and had a solid plan that worked,” Regragui said. “As hosts, we must approach every game like a final. The support from our fans pushes the players to give everything.”

The result leaves Morocco top of Group A with seven points, ahead of Mali, who also progressed following a goalless draw with Comoros.

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