The Atlas Lions of Morocco have successfully booked their place in the knockout stages of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). They secured their progression from Group F following a hard-fought 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo in a match played on Sunday.
A Tense Encounter in San Pedro
The crucial Group F clash took place at the Laurent Pokou Stadium in San Pedro, Ivory Coast. Morocco, one of the tournament favorites, entered the match needing only a point to guarantee their advancement to the round of 16. The Congolese side, known as the Leopards, were under pressure to secure a win to boost their own qualification hopes.
The opening goal came from a familiar source for Moroccan fans. In the 6th minute, Chelsea star Hakim Ziyech found the back of the net, giving the Atlas Lions an early and significant advantage. The goal seemed to set Morocco on course for a comfortable victory.
However, DR Congo responded with resilience. Their equalizer arrived in the 42nd minute from the penalty spot. Cedric Bakambu initially had his spot-kick saved by Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, but he was quickest to react to the rebound, slotting it home to level the score before halftime.
Second-Half Stalemate Seals Moroccan Progress
The second half saw both teams push for a winner, but neither could break the deadlock. The match ended 1-1, a result that suited Morocco's immediate objective. This single point was enough to confirm their spot in the next round of the continental championship.
Moroccan coach Walid Regragui watched the game from the stands, serving a touchline ban. His team, however, executed the plan effectively on the field. The draw means Morocco finishes at the top of Group F with 7 points from their three matches, maintaining an unbeaten record in the group stage.
Group F Standings and What's Next
The other match in the group saw Tanzania and Zambia play out a thrilling 1-1 draw. The final Group F table sees Morocco firmly in first place. Zambia follows in second place with 3 points, while DR Congo and Tanzania both have 2 points, with Congo ahead on goal difference.
Morocco's journey in the tournament continues as they prepare for the last 16. Their performance so far, despite the draw, reinforces their status as serious contenders for the AFCON title. The team will look to build on their solid defensive foundation and the attacking spark provided by players like Ziyech as they enter the do-or-die knockout phase.
The draw leaves DR Congo's fate hanging in the balance. They must now wait to see if they qualify as one of the four best third-placed teams from the group stages. Their hopes for progression now depend on results from other groups.
For Moroccan fans and football followers in Pakistan and across the globe, the focus now shifts to the round of 16 draw. The Atlas Lions will aim to go deeper into the tournament and challenge for the trophy they last won back in 1976.
