The Atlas Lions A’ secured their place in the final of the Arab Cup 2025 by dominating the United Arab Emirates (3-0) in a semi-final that they largely controlled. After an early scare, Morocco gradually took charge, displaying more control, mastery, and a solid defensive organization.
The reward came in the 28th minute: following a well-executed collective action, Karim El Berkaoui found the net with a precise header to put his team ahead. At halftime, the Moroccans went into the locker room with this lead (1-0), in a Khalifa Stadium in Doha that was firmly behind them, despite a few scares caused by Emirati attempts.
Upon returning from the break, the Emirates accelerated, and Morocco felt the pressure: Caio Lucas first hit the post before being flagged offside (48th), then Bruno rattled the crossbar from a corner (52nd). However, Tarik Sektioui’s men held firm before striking in the dying moments: Abderrazak Hamdallah, just entered the game, assisted Achraf Mahdioui for the 2-0 (84th), and then capped off the qualification by converting a cross from Boulacsout for the 3-0 (90+2). A clinical finish that sends Morocco to the final with authority.
