"Ayoub El Kaabi scored twice and Achraf Hakimi returned from injury as Morocco booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations knockout stages with a 3-0 win over Zambia. Hakimi has been out of action since he was injured while playing for Paris Saint-Germain against Bayern Munich in the Champions League in early November. Morocco's star player came on as a second-half substitute at Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah on Monday, with his team already three goals to the good."
"A stunning El Kaabi bicycle kick was initially ruled out in the 50th minute, but a VAR check confirmed the Morocco forward had beaten the offside trap to meet Abde Ezzalzouli's cross. With Mali and Comoros drawing 0-0 in the other game, Morocco confirmed their spot at the top of Group A, meaning Walid Regragui's team will play one of the best third-place teams in the last 16 on January 4."
Morocco defeated Zambia 3-0 to secure qualification to the Africa Cup of Nations knockout stages. Ayoub El Kaabi opened the scoring with a ninth-minute diving header and later added a confirmed bicycle-kick goal after a VAR check. Real Madrid playmaker Brahim Diaz added a second goal before the half-hour mark. Achraf Hakimi returned from an early-November injury as a second-half substitute, attempted three shots and forced a late save. Morocco dominated possession and chances, registering 19 shots, nine on target and 1.89 expected goals, while Zambia managed five efforts and 0.3 xG. Morocco finished top of Group A and will face a best third-place team in the last 16 on January 4.
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