Morocco delivered a statement performance to finish top of Group A at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025, while Mali booked a knockout place, Egypt secured qualification with a hard-fought draw and South Africa advanced after surviving a stern test.
Morocco 3-0 Zambia
Atlas Lions cruise as El Kaabi shines
Morocco responded emphatically to the pressure of a decisive group finale with a commanding 3-0 victory over Zambia on Monday night.
The hosts set the tone early and were rewarded in the ninth minute when Ayoub El Kaabi headed home from close range following a cleverly worked short corner. Azzedine Ounahi’s delivery picked out the striker, who rose unchallenged to open the scoring.
Morocco doubled their lead in the 27th minute through Brahim Diaz. Ounahi again pulled the strings, releasing Abde Ezzalzouli down the left. His low cross evaded El Kaabi but fell kindly to Diaz, who guided a composed left-footed finish past Toaster Nsabata Mwanza.
Any hope of a Zambian comeback ended eight minutes after the restart. From another rehearsed set-piece, Ounahi clipped the ball into the area and El Kaabi produced an acrobatic bicycle kick to complete his brace. Although initially flagged offside, VAR intervened to confirm the goal.
The win sees Walid Regragui’s side finish the group stage on seven points and claim top spot, staying in Rabat for the Round of 16.
El Kaabi, named TotalEnergies Man of the Match, said Morocco had achieved their primary target. Regragui praised his players’ execution and the impact of home support, while Zambia coach Moses Sichone admitted his side showed too much respect and paid the price.
Mali 0-0 Comoros
Eagles edge through as Comoros bow out
Mali secured a place in the knockout stages despite being held to a goalless draw by Comoros at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca.
The contest was tense and low on clear chances. Comoros threatened on the break, with Meziani Maoulida hesitating when well placed, while Mali came closest before the interval when Lassine Sinayoko’s powerful effort was superbly saved.
The pattern remained unchanged after the break, with Mali enjoying territorial control but lacking penetration. Late drama arrived in the 88th minute when Amadou Haidara was sent off for a dangerous challenge. Comoros pushed forward in search of a winner, but Mali held firm.
The result confirmed Morocco as group winners, with Mali progressing in second place after three draws. Comoros finished third with two points and exited the tournament.
Angola 0-0 Egypt
Pharaohs dig deep as Angola rue missed chances
Angola and Egypt played out a tense 0-0 draw at the Stade d’Agadir in a match rich in intensity if not goals.
Angola were the more adventurous side, particularly after the interval. Fredy struck the woodwork with a curling free-kick and repeatedly tested Egypt’s defensive resolve, while M’Bala Nzola went close late on.
Egypt, largely second best in open play, defended with discipline and organisation to secure the point they needed. The draw ensured the Pharaohs finished top of their group and advanced to the Round of 16.
Fredy, named Man of the Match in what he confirmed was his final international appearance, spoke emotionally about ending his national team career, while Angola coach Patrice Beaumelle felt his side deserved more. Egypt coach Hossam Hassan said the result was satisfactory after rotating his squad.
South Africa edge through
Bafana survive late scare to advance
South Africa sealed qualification after a hard-earned win over Zimbabwe, defending resolutely under sustained pressure to secure three vital points.
Despite being stretched at times, Bafana Bafana held firm to finish second in their group with six points. Zimbabwe, encouraged by a spirited display, were left to reflect on a campaign that ended with just one point.
Zimbabwe coach Mario Marinica praised his team’s transitions and organisation, while South Africa coach Hugo Broos admitted defensive lapses remain a concern despite progressing to the next round.
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