DR ‹ › The fans asked, and the Atlas Lions delivered on Sunday night at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, producing a spectacular 3–0 victory. The win secured Morocco a place in the round of 16 and confirmed top spot in Group A with a deserved seven points. Morocco's third group-stage match began with a fiery performance from the Atlas Lions. Ayoub El Kaabi opened the scoring early, finding the net in the 9th minute. Dominating possession, Morocco continued to press relentlessly in search of a second goal, which came in the 27th minute through Brahim Díaz, who finished clinically after an assist from Abdessamad Ezzalzouli. The first half ended on a strong note for the hosts, but the Lions showed no intention of slowing down after the break. Shortly into the second half, El Kaabi struck again with a spectacular bicycle kick, his trademark finish. Although the goal was briefly reviewed by VAR, it was ultimately confirmed, sealing Morocco's third of the night. The second half continued to see attacking intent from the Atlas Lions, even after a series of substitutions. El Kaabi, Díaz, Saibari, and Mazraoui were withdrawn, making way for Achraf Hakimi, making his first appearance of this AFCON, along with Youssef En-Nesyri, Eliesse Ben Seghir, and Ilias Akhomach. The emphatic win comes after a frustrating draw against Mali last Friday that cost Morocco two points. This time, however, the Atlas Lions responded in style, ensuring they will continue their AFCON campaign at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium for the knockout stages ahead.
