El Kaabi double sends Morocco into AFCON knockout stage

Morocco advanced to the round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a comfortable 3-0 win over Zambia in their final Group A match at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Monday.

Ayoub El Kaabi struck twice, including a spectacular overhead kick early in the second half, while Brahim Diaz also found the net as Walid Regragui’s side dominated throughout.

The hosts opened the scoring in the ninth minute when El Kaabi headed home from close range after Zambia failed to deal with a short corner.

Morocco doubled their lead in the 27th minute through Diaz, who swept a first-time finish into the bottom corner after meeting a diagonal pass from Abde Ezzalzouli.

Zambia showed brief attacking intent after the break, with Patson Daka firing wide from inside the area, but Morocco quickly restored control.

El Kaabi made it 3-0 moments later with an acrobatic overhead kick from Azzedine Ounahi’s cross. The goal was initially disallowed for offside before being awarded following a VAR review.

Zambian goalkeeper Willard Mwanza produced several fine saves to prevent a heavier defeat as Morocco eased through to the knockout phase.

Zambia exited the tournament after a disappointing group-stage campaign.